In Imphal, leaders from across Manipur’s political spectrum gathered on Tuesday to honor Jana Neta Hijam Irawat on his 129th birth anniversary. The event celebrated the life of this iconic freedom fighter, social reformer, and champion for the poor, known affectionately as Lamyanba or Irabot.
The main ceremony took place at Irawat Square in Thangmeiband, part of Imphal West District. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla led the tributes by placing flowers at Irabot’s statue. Joining him were former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, Congress MP from Inner Manipur Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, and representatives from various parties, lawmakers, and officials.
Irabot, who lived from 1896 to 1951, dedicated his life to fighting for equality and social justice in Manipur. He pushed hard for better education, support for peasants and workers, and progress for the state’s most vulnerable people. His legacy as a revolutionary leader continues to inspire efforts to uplift the downtrodden and build a more prosperous Manipur.
N. Biren Singh shared his thoughts on X, formerly Twitter. “I had the honor of joining the people of Manipur in observing Jana Neta Hijam Irawat Day,” he wrote. “It’s a moment to reflect on the enduring legacy of one of our most courageous and progressive leaders. The struggle he waged wasn’t just of his time—it’s a continuing call to action for us all. Let’s draw inspiration from his vision to build a Manipur that’s inclusive, equitable, and united.”
The event also drew top officials, including Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, Home Commissioner N. Ashok Kumar, and other senior leaders, who all paid their respects to this key figure in Manipur’s history.
Separately, the Congress party and other opposition groups held their own commemoration in Imphal. State Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh, also a local MLA, addressed the crowd about Irabot’s lifelong battles against feudalism, caste and ethnic discrimination, and the exploitation of the poor.
Singh pointed out how Irabot rallied farmers, workers, and peasants for fair wages and land rights—issues that echo today’s challenges for small traders and laborers in Manipur. He stressed Irabot’s dream of unity across castes, classes, and ethnic groups, along with his push for democracy, education, and youth involvement in social causes. “His ideas remain vital for tackling inequality and injustice right now,” Singh said.
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