Manipur on Friday paid homage to Pebam Chittaranjan Mangang, popularly remembered as the “human torch,” on his 21st death anniversary with floral tributes, a mass rally, and a public meeting. Chittaranjan, then 28 and an advisor of the Manipur Students’ Federation (MSF), self-immolated on August 15, 2004, demanding the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA).
Since 2005, the MSF has been observing the day as Students’ Martyrdom Day. This year’s commemoration in Imphal began with floral offerings at Chittaranjan’s memorial tomb at Takhellambam Leikai, Sega Road. From there, thousands of students and supporters took out a rally, which passed through Sega Road and Keishampat Junction before culminating at Imphal College, where a public meeting was held.
The day was also observed in Jiribam, where the MSF District Committee organised a memorial programme at the PWD Guest House. The event, which began with floral tributes, was attended by community leaders including M. Maipaksana Mangang, President of the All Jiribam United Club Association, along with representatives of Meira Paibi, JIMET, and AMAWOVA.
