The United Committee Manipur (UCM) today celebrated its 25th Foundation Day, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing mission to safeguard Manipur’s territorial integrity. The Silver Jubilee celebration was held at Tanthapolic Hall in Lamphel Super Market, with solemn tributes paid to those who have laid down their lives for the unity of the state.

Addressing the gathering, UCM President Y.K. Dhiren Meitei emphasized the urgent need for unity among all communities in Manipur, warning that the state’s very existence could be at risk if divisions persist. “The future of Manipur depends on our ability to live and work together in harmony,” he said.

The commemorative event was attended by leaders of several prominent civil society organisations, including Nongthombam Rupachandra (President, UPF), Maibam Bisheshwor (President, IPSA), Oinam Premjit (President, NIPCO), Yumnamcha Dilipkumar (President, PANDAM), Soraisam Sanjit (President, ACOAM-Lup Kangleipak), Y. Leirikleima (President, Kanglamei), and Lourembam Nganbi (President, AMKIL). All dignitaries echoed a common message of protecting Manipur’s collective identity and cultural heritage.

A one-minute silence was observed in honour of the martyrs of the historic June 18 movement and the victims of the ongoing ethnic unrest that began on May 3, 2023. The assembly paid heartfelt tributes to those who sacrificed their lives defending Manipur’s territorial integrity and to those who continue to work for peace and justice.

Recounting UCM’s formation on July 3, 2001, Dhiren Meitei recalled the public outrage over the controversial “Without Territorial Limits” clause in the ceasefire agreement signed between the Government of India and NSCN-IM on June 14, 2001, in Bangkok. He said the agreement was widely seen as a threat to Manipur’s territorial unity and became the catalyst for the formation of UCM as a united front of civil society groups.

Highlighting that the threat to Manipur’s territorial integrity still persists, Meitei cautioned against ongoing attempts to destabilise the state by dividing its people. He reaffirmed UCM’s unwavering resolve to defend Manipur’s unity and identity and urged for collective vigilance and action to confront the challenges ahead.