Imphal, 15 August 2016 ( Evening News )  : The 70th Independence Day of India was celebrated at state level at the Parade Ground, 1st Manipur Rifles. Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, his Council of Ministers, MLAs, top civil and police officials and others attended the state function. Chief Minister inspected the parade along with Commandant of 4th IRB, Ningshen Worngam who led the parade and unfurled the tricolour. Chief Minister then took the salute of march-past participated by 40 contingent of Ex-Servicemen, BSF, CRPF, Manipur Rifles, Mizoram police, Civil, IRB, Jail, Home Guard, Fire Service, NCC and students from different Schools and Colleges. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh paid homage to the freedom fighters of the country and respect to their supreme sacrifice for the country. Chief Minister stated that India is respected worldwide as it is rapidly progressing. Chief Minister said he is proud to be a citizen of India. Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh also added that Manipur have also excelled in various fields including participation of large number of sportspersons in Olympics which we are very proud of. Maintaining that the govt have already sought suggestions and comments on the new draft bill for the protection of the indigenous people of the state available on govt’s website, Okram Ibobi Singh said enacting a bill acceptable to all sections of the people of Manipur is a desire of the govt and the govt will pass a consensus bill.

Meanwhile in the state the Normal life has been badly hit by the general strike called by CoRCOM today from 1 in the morning till 6 in the evening boycotting India's 70th Independence Day celebration. Business hub of the state, 3 Khawairamband Ima Markets, Paona Bazar and Thangal Bazar remained shut for the day. All the major roads in and around Imphal city wore deserted look as all sort of vehicles were off the road except for essential services, religious and emergency cases. Police were seen in every pockets of Imphal City keeping strict vigil to thwart any untoward incident.