A memorial lecture in honour of former Chief Minister Md. Alimuddin was held on Thursday under the aegis of the Alimuddin Memorial Foundation at Lilong Haoreibi Turel Ahanbi Maning. The event was presided over by Abdul Hashim, Chief Adviser of the Alimuddin Memorial Foundation, while former UNLF Chairman RK Meghen (Sanayaima) attended the programme as Special Guest. Alhaj Md.Alauddin, former Minister and eldest son of late Md Alimuddin, R.K.Nimai, retd IAS, Columnist and public intellectual and Alhaj Moulana Muheiyuddin Manjiri, president, UMPC and advisor, Md Alimuddin memorial foundation was present as guests of honors. Speaking as Chief Guest, veteran politician and former Minister Okram Joy stated that even today, if one searches for a leader who truly deserves the position of Chief Minister through integrity and merit, Md. Alimuddin stands out as the most deserving. He recalled that after Manipur attained full state in 1972, Md. Alimuddin, a representative from Lilong Assembly Constituency, became the first Chief Minister of the state. Okram Joy, who was well acquainted with late Alimuddin, continued that when Alimuddin assumed office as Chief Minister, he came with a clear vision to build and strengthen Manipur. He described Alimuddin not only as a political leader but as a true political warrior and one of the key architects in shaping modern Manipur.
Joy further observed that the present political culture is vastly different from that of Alimuddin’s time. Today’s politics, he said, is often driven by violence, narrow interests and personal gain. In contrast, Alimuddin upheld discipline, patience and democratic values. He maintained that the rule of law, which appears weakened today, was respected during Alimuddin’s tenure. He also stated that Alimuddin worked tirelessly for the unity and development of Manipur, raising the state’s voice on democratic platforms and ensuring that Manipur maintained its distinct identity within the Indian Union. Joy remarked that in the present crisis faced by Manipur, leaders with the courage, integrity and commitment of Alimuddin are greatly needed. He emphasized the importance of nurturing new ideas, new perspectives and a renewed collective vision for rebuilding Manipur. Speaking at the occasion, former UNLF Chairman RK Meghen recalled that the Pan Manipur Youth League, formed in 1968, began observing Patriots’ Day on August 13, 1969. He noted that Md. Alimuddin had attended the observance as Chief Guest at a time when the programme was not widely recognized. On that day itself, August 13 was officially declared as Patriots’ Day to honour the martyrs of the Anglo Manipuri War of 1891, Meghen reminded.
Meghen further stated that the contributions made by Alimuddin for the welfare of the state remain well acknowledged. He highlighted the significant role played by the Meitei Pangal community in the development of Manipur and stressed the need for committed leaders from all communities, including figures like Yangmaso Shaiza from the Naga community, to work collectively for peace and progress. As part of the programme, the Chief Guest also inaugurated a record exhibition showcasing the life and works of Md. Alimuddin. During the memorial lecture, Assistant Professor Naorem Sanatomba of the Department of Manipuri, Manipur University, and Associate Professor Dr. Syed Ahmed of Dhanamanjuri University (DMU) presented scholarly papers highlighting various aspects of Md. Alimuddin’s life, political ideology and contributions to Manipur.
