Manipur joined the rest of the country in solemnly observing Martyrs’ Day (Shaheed Diwas) on January 30, marking the 78th death anniversary of Rashtrapita Mahatma Gandhi and honouring all martyrs who laid down their lives for India’s independence.
In Imphal, the main state-level observance was held at Gandhi Memorial Hall, where Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the chief guest, led the homage by laying a wreath at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Members of the Legislative Assembly, the Chief Secretary, the Security Advisor, the Director General of Police, and senior civil and police officers also paid floral tributes. A two-minute silence was observed in memory of Mahatma Gandhi and the martyrs of the freedom struggle.

Martyrs’ Day was also observed across various districts. In Kamjong district, the programme was held at the District Camp Office, Second Manipur Rifles Complex, where Deputy Commissioner Luckyson Ngamsha Kashung led the tribute ceremony in the presence of Superintendent of Police Rocky Thalu and district officials. The Deputy Commissioner highlighted the sacrifices made for the nation’s sovereignty, unity and freedom, and urged citizens to uphold Gandhian values of truth and non-violence.

In Kangpokpi district, Sub-Deputy Collector Headquarters Papao Touthang paid tribute to the martyrs, stating that Gandhian principles continue to guide public service and responsible citizenship. A minute of silence was observed during the programme.

Similarly, Pherzawl district administration observed the day at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, where Deputy Commissioner Mannuamching led officials and staff in observing a two-minute silence. He reminded the gathering of the supreme sacrifices made for the nation and called for adherence to the values of peace, truth and non-violence. Similar observances were organised across sub-divisional offices and government institutions in the district.

Meanwhile, in Churachandpur district, a free eye check-up camp for drivers was organised as part of National Road Safety Month 2026 by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer at the Eye OPD of District Hospital, Churachandpur.

Conducted under the supervision of eye specialist Ginthianmung, District Nodal Officer of the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment, the camp saw the participation of a large number of commercial vehicle drivers. Vision and colour vision tests were conducted to promote road safety and reduce accidents, with drivers advised to undergo regular eye examinations.

Martyrs’ Day is observed annually on January 30 to commemorate the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in 1948 and to remember his ideals of truth and non-violence while paying homage to all those who sacrificed their lives for the nation.