Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, Nov 10, 2024: Manipuris from Assam and Tripura living in Delhi have formed an organization called Assam Tripura Meetei Apunba Lup (ATML). To celebrate their founding day, a special event was held at the MP’s Club in North Avenue, New Delhi, where around 150 women from Assam and Tripura manipuri families residing in Delhi were invited. They were served specially prepared Manipuri delicacies and given gifts. The event was graced by the esteemed guest and social worker, Dr M Santikumar Singha, a notable figure from the Assam Manipuri community.
ATML members warmly welcomed Dr. M Santikumar Singha with special honors and greeted him at the airport. A discussion on the significance of Ningol Chakouba, a Manipuri festival celebrating the bond between families, was also organized, presided over by Phanibhusan Singh. Dr Krishna Devi delivered the welcome and inaugural speeches. In his address, Santikumar Singha praised the courage, skill, and contributions of Manipuri women in politics, social and economic spheres, making them renowned worldwide. He acknowledged the roles women play as mothers, sisters, wives, daughters, and even on the sports field and in cultural arenas. He encouraged everyone to honor their sacrifices and contributions, aiming to build a society where women can live freely and with strength.
Dr. Singha emphasized the need for the Manipuri community to unite, introspect, and work for the nation’s and future generations’ interests. He expressed his best wishes for the growth of ATML and extended his commitment to support it financially and in other ways.
Prominent Manipuri intellectuals from Assam’s Barak Valley and Tripura praised Santikumar Singha and assured their constant support for the organization. From ATML, Keisam Sanjeev mentioned that the Manipuri society in Assam lacks representation, and they are hopeful that youth leaders like Dr. M Santikumar Singha will address the community’s needs.
Honored guests present at the event included Hijam Rajen, who endorsed the organization’s decisions, national Sepak Takraw coach Thangjam (o) Bidhumkhi Singha, UMASA President Rupen, and Delhi Police’s PM Security Officer Dr B.P. Rao. The program was led by Nivedita Devi, and Secretary of ATML Ibemchaobi Devi gave the vote of thanks, stating that the day’s celebrations with songs and dances would remain unforgettable.