Manipur: Thousands gather at Kekrupat to honour 18 martyrs on Great Uprising Day

Large crowds assembled at Kekrupat, Imphal, on Wednesday to observe the 24th Great Uprising Day, commemorating the historic mass movement of June 18, 2001.

People from various walks of life gathered at the memorial site to pay floral tributes to 18 martyrs who died protesting the extension of the ceasefire agreement "without territorial limits" between the Government of India and NSCN (IM).

Civil society organisations jointly organised the programme with support from families of the martyrs. The commemoration began with a candlelight tribute early morning, followed by a public meeting that highlighted the importance of safeguarding Manipur's territorial integrity.

The observance served as a symbol of unity, sacrifice, and the people's commitment to protect Manipur's integrity. Participants gathered to honour those who laid down their lives during the 2001 movement that opposed the territorial provisions of the ceasefire agreement.

The day's events focused on remembering the significance of the mass movement and the ultimate sacrifice made by the 18 individuals who became symbols of resistance for territorial protection.