Items filtered by date: Thursday, 13 August 2026

Manipur Observes 135th Patriots’ Day

Imphal, August 13: Manipur observed the 135th Patriots’ Day today, paying tribute to the patriots who sacrificed their lives during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand led the State-level observance at Hicham Yaichampat, Yaiskul, the final resting place of Bir Tikendrajit. The Chief Minister, Council of Ministers, MLAs and senior officials laid wreaths and offered floral tributes. Personnel of the First Manipur Rifles presented a Guard of Honour and gun salute. Patriots’ Day commemorates the execution of Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General, who were publicly hanged at Pheidabung on August 13, 1891, along with other patriots executed inside Manipur Jail.

Tribute Paid to Thangal General at Palace Compound

Imphal, August 13: Patriots’ Day was observed at Thangal General Temple in the Palace Compound, Imphal, with Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand leading the tributes. The Chief Minister offered floral tribute to Thangal General, one of Manipur’s revered patriots who was executed during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. Ministers, MLAs and senior civil and police officials also attended the observance and paid their respects. The programme formed part of statewide commemorations marking the 135th Patriots’ Day. Across Manipur, people remembered the courage and sacrifices of the patriots who resisted British forces and defended the sovereignty and dignity of the former princely state.

Governor Calls for Unity and Collective Strength

Imphal, August 13: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has called upon the people of Manipur to strengthen unity and collective resolve to achieve lasting peace and progress. Speaking at the State-level Patriots’ Day observance at Bir Tikendrajit Park, the Governor highlighted the courage of Manipuri soldiers who fought the British during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. Governor Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand laid wreaths at the Shahid Minar. A Guard of Honour and gun salute were presented by the Manipur Rifles. Tributes were also paid at the memorial commemorating patriots exiled to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

CM Calls for Recognition of Shared History

Imphal, August 13: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand has said the people of Manipur’s hills and valley have historically stood together to protect the state’s territorial integrity from external threats and invasions. Speaking at the Patriots’ Day observance at Bir Tikendrajit Park, Khemchand urged all communities to recognise this shared history and sacrifice. He called upon people to remember the contributions of their forefathers and work collectively towards development and progress. The Chief Minister also cautioned against vested interest groups attempting to create divisions for political gain. The programme also featured the announcement of recipients of the Chief Minister’s Police Medals for Gallantry and Outstanding Devotion to Duty.

Thoubal District Observes Patriots’ Day

Thoubal, August 13: The District Administration Thoubal observed the 135th Patriots’ Day at the DC Complex Election Hall today. Deputy Commissioner Yumnam Robita led district officials and other attendees in paying floral tribute to Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General. The observance was held as part of statewide programmes commemorating the sacrifices of Manipur’s patriots during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. Officials paid their respects to the martyrs and recalled their role in resisting British rule. Similar observances were organised by district administrations and civil society organisations across Manipur to mark Patriots’ Day and honour those who sacrificed their lives for the state’s freedom and dignity.

Bishnupur District Pays Tribute to Patriots

Bishnupur, August 13: The District Administration Bishnupur observed Patriots’ Day at the Conference Hall of the DC Office in the Mini Secretariat Complex. Deputy Commissioner Pooja Elangbam led the observance, joined by ADC Toijam Opendro, district-level officers and officials of the district administration. Floral tributes were offered in memory of Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General, whose sacrifices are commemorated on Patriots’ Day every year. The programme formed part of the district’s observance of the 135th Patriots’ Day. Officials recalled the bravery and sacrifice of Manipur’s patriots who resisted British forces during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.

Chandel District Observes Patriots’ Day

Chandel, August 13: The District Administration Chandel commemorated Patriots’ Day at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the DC Office Complex today. Deputy Commissioner Mamoni Doley led the observance, during which floral tributes were offered to portraits of Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General. District officials and staff attended the programme and paid homage to the patriots whose sacrifices are remembered on August 13 every year. The observance formed part of statewide commemorations of the 135th Patriots’ Day, which marks the sacrifices made during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. The day continues to serve as an occasion to remember Manipur’s historical resistance against British rule.

Jiribam Marks 135th Patriots’ Day

Jiribam, August 13: The Patriots’ Day Observation Committee, Jiribam, observed the 135th Patriots’ Day at Ningsingkhul Biodiversity Park. Participants paid floral tributes to the statues of Bir Tikendrajit, Thangal General and Paona Brajabasi. Jiribam Deputy Commissioner Arvind Hanglem, Jiri Development Organisation President E. Dewan and representatives of various civil society organisations attended the programme. The observance recalled the sacrifices of Manipur’s patriots who fought against British forces during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. The programme was part of statewide commemorations held today to honour the courage, sacrifice and contribution of the patriots in defending Manipur’s freedom and identity.

Shumang Leela Council Marks Patriots’ Day

Imphal, August 13: The Manipur Shumang Leela Council observed Patriots’ Day for the 15th time at Manipur Shumang Leela Shanglen in the Palace Compound. A Shumang Leela titled “Mareibak Ningba Koirengshana” was presented by renowned artistes as part of the commemoration. Art and Culture Minister Kh. Loken and MLA S. Rajen attended the programme. Minister Loken highlighted the role of culture and sports in preserving and promoting Manipur’s identity. He also assured that the government would take steps to upgrade the Shumang Leela Shanglen. The programme combined cultural expression with remembrance of the patriots who sacrificed their lives during the Anglo-Manipuri War.

Patriots’ Day Observed in New Delhi

New Delhi, August 13: Patriots’ Day was observed at Manipur Bir Tikendrajit House in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, to commemorate the valour and sacrifices of Manipur’s patriots. Rajya Sabha MP A. Sharda, MLAs Ranjit, M. Rameshwar Singh and Ram Muivah, Dr Yumnam Arunkumar, elders and members of the Manipuri community attended the programme. Participants offered floral tributes to the departed patriots and observed a two-minute silence. Sharda Devi recalled the sacrifices of the patriots and called for their legacy of courage, unity and service to be preserved. The programme provided members of the Manipuri community in the national capital an opportunity to collectively remember the state’s historic struggle.

Ukhrul MLA Pays Tribute to Patriots

Ukhrul, August 13: Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah paid tribute to the martyrs of Manipur on Patriots’ Day. In a message marking the occasion, Muivah remembered Bir Tikendrajit Singh, General Thangal, General Paona and Kajao Naga and acknowledged their sacrifices for the freedom and dignity of Manipur. He said the courage and sacrifices of the patriots would continue to inspire future generations. The MLA’s message formed part of the wider Patriots’ Day observances held across Manipur and outside the state. The annual observance commemorates the patriots who resisted British rule during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891 and made the ultimate sacrifice.

AMUCO Calls for Unity to Protect Manipur

Imphal, August 13: The All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation and various civil society organisations jointly observed the 135th Athouba Singi Numit, or Patriots’ Day, at Thangmeiband Cheiraoching. AMUCO President Sorokhaibam Sanjoy called upon the people to uphold the spirit and sacrifices of Manipur’s forefathers. He urged citizens to remain united in protecting the state’s land, identity and culture. Sanjoy also called on people to reject divisive forces and work collectively for the future of Manipur. The programme was part of a series of commemorative events organised across the state to remember the sacrifices of the patriots and reaffirm the importance of unity and collective responsibility.

S.L. Arena of Learning Observes Patriots’ Day

Imphal, August 13: S.L. Arena of Learning observed Patriots’ Day today, paying homage to the martyrs of Manipur who sacrificed their lives during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. Floral tributes were offered to the departed patriots as part of the commemoration. The programme also featured a Thang-Ta demonstration, cultural performances highlighting the significance of Patriots’ Day and a recitation competition. School Headmistress Sashikala Meitram, teachers, staff members and students participated in the observance. The programme sought to introduce younger generations to the historical significance of Patriots’ Day and encourage students to remember the courage and sacrifices of those who fought against British rule.

Nambol Thang-Ta Centre Marks Patriots’ Day

Nambol, August 13: Sana Leibak Manipur Hakchang Shajel Thang-Ta Shindam Shanglen at Nambol in Bishnupur district observed Patriots’ Day today. Participants paid floral tribute to Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General in remembrance of their sacrifices during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. Students of the centre also presented a Thang-Ta demonstration as part of the programme. The observance highlighted the connection between Manipur’s traditional martial art and the history of the state’s resistance. Students and attendees paid homage to the patriots and reflected on the importance of preserving Manipur’s cultural traditions and historical memory for future generations.

Patriots’ Day Observed Across Tripura

Agartala, August 13: Patriots’ Day was observed at several locations across Tripura today in remembrance of Manipur’s fallen heroes. Observances were held at Kamalpur in Dhalai district, Jolabasa in North Tripura and Berimura, Abhoynagar and Nalgoria in West Tripura, among other locations. A mass rally was also organised in Kamalpur town. In Agartala, the Manipuri Literary and Cultural Forum and Puthiba Welfare and Cultural Society organised programmes to mark Patriots’ Day. Members of the Manipuri community paid tribute to the patriots and remembered their courage and sacrifice during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.

R.K. Meghen Opposes Any Move to Cede Manipur Territory

Imphal, August 13: Former UNLF chairman R.K. Meghen has said any move to give away Manipur’s territory in an effort to strengthen ties with Myanmar cannot be justified. Speaking on the sidelines of the 57th Patriots’ Day observance organised by the Organising Committee and Lamyanba Publications Trust at Lamyanba Shanglen, Meghen said any attempt to compromise Manipur’s territorial boundary must be opposed. He stressed that Manipur has historically maintained a distinct identity and recalled the resistance mounted during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. Meghen urged people, particularly the youth, to demonstrate courage, unity and patriotism and collectively work to protect Manipur’s interests.

Six Student Organisations Call for Strong Patriotism

Imphal, August 13: Coordinator of six student organisations—AMSU, MSF, DESAM, KSA, SUK and AIMS—Hijam Roshan has stressed the need to uphold the spirit of patriotism demonstrated by Manipur’s forefathers. Speaking at the 135th Patriots’ Day observance at GP Women’s College, Roshan said laws alone cannot protect the state without a strong sense of patriotism among its people. He called upon the younger generation to understand the sacrifices made by their predecessors in safeguarding Manipur. The six student organisations also observed Patriots’ Day at various educational institutions across the state, encouraging students to remember the historical significance of the day.

NIA Arrests Alleged UKNA Finance Head in Bomb Blast Case

Imphal, August 13: The National Investigation Agency has arrested S. Palal Kuki, alleged Finance Head of proscribed United Kuki National Army, in connection with the April 7 bomb attack at Tronglaobi Awang Leikai in Bishnupur district. The blast killed two minor siblings and critically injured their mother. According to the NIA, Palal Kuki was arrested on July 23 from Old Gelmol in Churachandpur during a joint operation involving Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, Army and CRPF. Investigators allegedly linked him to several other incidents, including the December 2025 Torbung blast and firing incidents in 2026. A Special NIA Court in Imphal remanded him to 10 days’ police custody.

Security Forces Recover Arms in Senapati

Senapati, August 13: Security forces recovered a cache of weapons and ammunition during a search operation at Kailenjang village under Senapati Police Station today. The recovery included five single-barrel guns, one 9mm pistol and two Chinese hand grenades. Security personnel also recovered 13 rounds of ammunition of different calibres along with 33 empty cases. The operation was conducted as part of continuing security searches in vulnerable areas of Manipur. The recovered weapons and ammunition have been taken into custody for further investigation. Security forces have been conducting intensified search operations across several districts following the recovery of a large number of illegal weapons in recent months.

29 NEET-PG Candidates Seek Centre Shift From Churachandpur

Imphal, August 13: Twenty-nine Meitei and Naga candidates appearing for NEET-PG 2026 have reportedly been allotted an examination centre in Churachandpur district, prompting concerns over their ability to appear for the examination. The candidates have submitted representations to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand seeking intervention to shift the examination centre. They have also approached the concerned authorities for necessary arrangements. The candidates cited the prevailing situation and expressed apprehension about travelling to Churachandpur for the examination. During the recently held NEET examination, candidates allotted centres in Churachandpur were reportedly allowed to appear at an Imphal centre following arrangements by the authorities.

JFD Warns of Resistance to Census Training

Imphal, August 13: Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation Finance Secretary Sunil Karam has warned that government officials conducting training related to the Census will face democratic resistance. Speaking at a public meeting at Itham Mamang Leikai Community Hall in Imphal East, Karam said all Census-related training programmes would be opposed. He urged members of the public to inform the organisation if they become aware of any training venue. Karam also alleged that Manipur Police should not use excessive force against JFD volunteers during their agitation. The JFD has been opposing the Census until updation of the National Register of Citizens and resettlement of internally displaced persons.

PICK Demands NRC Updation Before Census

Imphal, August 13: Peace and Integrity Committee Kyamgei Convenor Chingakham Meghachandra has urged elected representatives to channel the enthusiasm generated by the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign towards the demand for updation of the National Register of Citizens. He was speaking during a “No NRC, No Census” human-chain protest along Kyamgei Pal Ahambi Road. The protest was jointly organised by PICK, Kongba Irong Youth Development Club, Kongba Irong Meira Paibi and All Kyamgei Nupi Chaokhat Lup. Protesters demanded NRC updation using 1951 as the base year, resettlement of internally displaced persons before the Census and postponement of the Census, citing Section 3 of the Census Act, 1948.

Khurai MLA Questions Census Before NRC Updation

Imphal, August 13: Khurai MLA L. Sushindro has acknowledged growing public discontent with the government while maintaining that he would continue working for the welfare of the people. Speaking at the Second Open State-Level Patriotic Song Competition organised by BJP Khurai Mandal and the Sushindro Foundation, the MLA questioned the decision to conduct the Census before updation of the National Register of Citizens. Sushindro also criticised the Congress, alleging that its policies had contributed to Manipur’s social and political turmoil and created challenges for the indigenous population. His remarks came amid growing opposition from various groups to the proposed Census exercise.

Ukhrul MLA Urges Priority for NH-202 and NH-102A

New Delhi, August 13: Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah has apprised Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari of the poor condition of NH-202 and NH-102A in Manipur. During a meeting in New Delhi on Wednesday, Muivah submitted details on the condition of the highways and highlighted difficulties faced by people due to delays in road construction. Gadkari expressed concern over delays in handing over land to NHIDCL, particularly for the Ukhrul Bypass and Shangshak–Tengnoupal sectors. He also noted the impact of court intervention on certain stretches. Gadkari directed the MoRTH Secretary to prioritise the two highways and asked Director Narendra Sharma to visit Ukhrul and submit a report.

Meitei Leepun Holds Blood Donation Camp at RIMS

Imphal, August 13: Meitei Leepun observed Athoubasingi Ningsing Numit with a blood donation camp at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences today. Around 70 volunteers donated blood in remembrance of the departed heroes of Manipur. The organisation said the blood donation drive would be held annually as part of its commemoration. It also announced plans to conduct regular blood donation programmes at RIMS, JNIMS, Shija Hospital and Babina Hospital. The initiative sought to honour the memory of the state’s patriots through a practical contribution to healthcare. The organisation encouraged people to participate in voluntary blood donation and support patients requiring blood transfusions.

Churachandpur Holds Har Ghar Tiranga Bike Rally

Churachandpur, August 13: The District Administration Churachandpur organised a bike rally under the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign to commemorate India’s 80th Independence Day. Deputy Commissioner Krishna Kumar flagged off the rally from Peace Ground, Tuibong. More than 70 bikers participated in the rally, which culminated at Geljang Resort. The campaign sought to encourage citizens to participate in Independence Day celebrations and promote the display of the national flag. In addition to the bike rally, the Chiengkon Village Authority organised a Har Ghar Tiranga Yatra. The programmes formed part of nationwide activities leading up to Independence Day on August 15.

Manipur Showcases Thangjing Products in New Delhi

New Delhi, August 13: The Horticulture Department of the Manipur Government is showcasing Thangjing, or fox nut, and its value-added products at the Bharatiya Vyapar Mahotsav at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. The expo began on August 12 and will continue until August 15, featuring around 600 stalls. The Manipur stall has attracted visitors interested in a variety of Thangjing-based food products, with several products also being purchased. The initiative aims to highlight Manipur’s potential in fox nut production, create awareness and explore wider marketing opportunities. The stall is being supported under the Makhana Development Scheme of the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

Ima Keithel Women Vendors Conduct Cleanliness Drive

Imphal, August 13: Women vendors of Khwairamband Ima Market observed their monthly cleanliness programme today. The vendors traditionally stop business activities on the first day of every Meitei lunar month to participate in the cleanliness drive. As part of the observance, the women also performed a ritual offering new robes to the Phouibee Deity at the shrine located at Ima Market No. 3. The cleanliness programme was jointly organised by Nupi Keithel Sinfam Amadi Saktam Kanba Lup, KEDO and the Manipur Fire Service Department. The initiative combined the upkeep of the historic market with the preservation of traditional religious and cultural practices.

Divine Life Society Condoles Former President’s Demise

Imphal, August 13: The Imphal Branch of the Divine Life Society, Manipur, held a condolence meeting following the demise of its former president, Khangebam Ibochouba. Members of the Society gathered to pay their respects to the departed former office-bearer and observed a two-minute silence as a mark of honour. The condolence meeting provided members with an opportunity to remember Ibochouba and acknowledge his association with the organisation. The Society expressed its grief over his passing and conveyed respect for his contributions during his tenure as president.

Mr Khamba State-Level Bodybuilding Contest Held

Imphal, August 13: The 12th Mr Khamba Inter-District State-Level Bodybuilding Contest was held at the Public Ground of National Games Village Zone 4 at Langol today under the aegis of the All Manipur Body Builders Association. Commonwealth Games silver medallist Chanambam Rishikanta attended the inaugural programme along with association officials and other dignitaries. A total of 40 competitors took part in different categories, including 16 in Men’s Sports Physique, four in Women’s Bodybuilding, nine in Junior Bodybuilding and 11 in Senior Bodybuilding. Speaking at the inauguration, Rishikanta encouraged athletes to continue pursuing their goals despite challenges and difficulties.

IMPHAL 13 AUG 2026: Twenty-nine Meitei and Naga candidates appearing for NEET-PG 2026 have reportedly been allotted an examination centre in Churachandpur district, prompting the candidates to seek intervention from the authorities for relocation of the centre.

The candidates have expressed concern over the allotment, stating that the prevailing situation could make it difficult for them to travel to Churachandpur and appear for the examination if the centre remains there.

Seeking a solution, the candidates have submitted applications to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, urging them to intervene and facilitate a change of their examination centre. They have also approached the concerned authorities, requesting that their circumstances be considered and necessary arrangements made.

The candidates have appealed to the authorities to ensure that they are able to sit for the postgraduate medical entrance examination without facing difficulties arising from the location of the allotted centre.

The issue comes amid similar concerns during the recently conducted NEET examination, when some candidates from the valley were allotted examination centres in Churachandpur. On that matter, the concerned authorities reportedly made arrangements for the candidates to appear for the examination at a centre in Imphal.

The candidates are now seeking similar consideration for NEET-PG 2026, saying that shifting the centre would enable them to appear for the examination without disruption.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested S. Palal Kuki alias Lalboi Singson, an alleged Finance Head of the proscribed United Kuki National Army (UKNA), in connection with the April 7, 2026 bomb attack at Tronglaobi Awang Leikai in Bishnupur district, which killed two minor siblings and critically injured their mother.

According to the NIA, the arrested accused is S. Palal Kuki, son of late Letjang of Molnom village in Churachandpur district. He was apprehended on July 23, 2026, from Old Gelmol village in Churachandpur during a joint counter-insurgency operation conducted by Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, Indian Army and CRPF.

During interrogation, Palal allegedly admitted to being the Finance Head of UKNA, according to the police. Investigators subsequently linked him to several cases involving alleged subversive activities in different parts of the state.

Linked to Multiple Cases

According to investigators, Palal has been linked to the December 16, 2025 Torbung bomb blast, firing in the Molnom area during the intervening night of February 3 and 4, 2026, and the July 4 firing in Kaprang ahead of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s visit to Churachandpur to attend the funeral of late MLA Vungzagin Valte.

He was also allegedly involved in firing incidents involving CRPF personnel in March 2026, investigators said.

A significant breakthrough came during the investigation when Palal was allegedly found to be one of the key persons involved in the Tronglaobi bomb attack case, initially registered as FIR No. 23(4)2026 at Moirang Police Station and subsequently taken over and re-registered by the NIA as RC-04/2026/NIA/IMP.

Two Children Killed in Tronglaobi Attack

The April 7 attack involved an explosive device allegedly launched towards a civilian house at Tronglaobi Awang Leikai. The blast killed two young siblings—a five-year-old child and a five-month-old infant—and critically injured their mother, Oinam Binita.

The incident had triggered widespread concern and condemnation, with security agencies subsequently intensifying investigations into the perpetrators and the network allegedly behind the attack.

10-Day NIA Custody

Following his arrest by the NIA, S. Palal Kuki was produced before the Special NIA Court in Imphal on August 12. The court remanded him to 10 days of police custody.

The NIA has said that further investigation is underway to identify and apprehend other persons allegedly involved in the Tronglaobi attack and to uncover the wider network behind the incident.