The United National Liberation Front observed its 61st Anniversary with a formal programme held at the 2nd Brigade Headquarters in Hongbibain, Kakching Khunou.
The observance was attended by invited guests, party leaders, and cadres. Pradeep Phanjoubam, Editor of Imphal Review of Arts and Politics, attended the programme as Chief Guest. The function was presided over by Thokchom Khambaton, Acting Chairman of the party, who served as the Functional President.
Special guests on the dais included BM Yaima Shah, Acting President of FOCS; Charairongba Thokchom, Secretary of Publicity and Education; Advisory Committee member I. Tonsana; General Secretary Salam Nongdol; Organisation Secretary Khuraijam Ibudhou; Chief of Army Staff Khuraijam Khoimu; and Yazing Yicizy Shimray, Convenor of the Core Committee of Relief and Rehabilitation, Manipur.
As part of the programme, Acting Chairman Thokchom Khambaton hoisted the party flag and delivered the keynote address. He paid homage to cadres and civilians who lost their lives for the cause of the land, stating that their sacrifices would continue to be remembered as the organisation advances its political objectives with unity and resolve.
In his address, Khambaton referred to the ceasefire agreement signed on November 29, 2023, between a faction of the UNLF and the Government of India. He stated that the terms of the agreement were designed to extend the influence of Indian security forces over the organisation and to divert political engagement away from what he described as the fundamental issue of the long-standing conflict between Manipur and India.
Reaffirming that the party does not believe in violence or bloodshed, he asserted that the core problem in Manipur stems from what the organisation considers a forcible occupation. He added that recognising the truth without acting upon it would not bring meaningful change, and reiterated the party’s commitment to addressing the root cause rather than its consequences.
Khambaton noted that developments in Manipur over the past two years have underscored the importance of articulating political truth and confronting reality. He stated that Manipur’s political identity cannot be replaced by alternative narratives, and that only adherence to truth can lead to a lasting solution.
Referring to the events following the violence of May 3, 2023, he said the party intensified its activities to stand with the people during a critical period. He maintained that the organisation’s efforts, whether acknowledged publicly or not, were guided by its responsibility to protect the people and safeguard the land.
Highlighting Manipur’s long history, he recalled the sacrifices made by earlier generations in defending the land. While acknowledging that the present generation may not fully grasp the magnitude of past struggles, he observed that a renewed sense of unity among indigenous communities has emerged in recent times, overcoming earlier divisions and mistrust.
The Acting Chairman concluded by calling for sincere and sustained efforts to strengthen unity and harmony among all indigenous groups. He stated that collective strength is essential for securing a rightful future in their own land, and reaffirmed the organisation’s belief that shared consciousness and unity will continue to guide its path forward.