Imphal: The city of Imphal witnessed a heartfelt and dignified tribute in memory of the late SDPO Chingtham Anand, who lost his life tragically in the hands of Kuki Militants in Moreh. The ceremonial homage unfolded at the 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles Ground, where the weight of the occasion was palpable. Manipur’s Chief Minister, N. Biren Singh, accompanied by Ministers and MLAs, joined the assembly to honor the valiant Moreh Office-in-Charge, Chingtham Anand, with profound reverence, laying garlands on his coffin.
Amid the poignant gathering, a moment of poignant significance was when the renowned former world boxing champion, Sarita Devi, visibly moved and emotional, paid her respects by offering a garland to Chingtham Anand’s mortal remains. Her heartfelt gesture echoed the collective grief and respect felt by all attendees present, emphasizing the impact of this loss on the community.
However, as the state mourned the loss of a brave officer, the ceremony shed light on a grim reality. Despite the government’s assurances and claims of progress in restoring peace, the situation in Manipur remains unsettling. Almost half a year since the outbreak of violence, the persistent unrest challenges the promised return to normalcy. This lingering instability looms over the region, casting doubt on the proclaimed advancements towards peace and stability, leaving many uncertain about the ability to effectively quell the ongoing unrest.
The poignant ceremony served not only as a tribute to a fallen hero but also as a stark reminder of the prolonged struggle for sustained peace in Manipur, indicating the complexity and challenges that persist in the region, despite official assurances of progress.
