105th anniversary of Anglo-Kuki War observed in Dibrugarh

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

DIBRUGARH: The Kukis of Dibrugarh observed the 105th anniversary of the Anglo-Kuki War of 1917-1919 here in Dibrugarh with the theme 'Cherishing and upholding the spirit of the Anglo-Kuki War fought in Defence of Ancestral Land and Freedom'.

The Anglo-Kuki War was one of the biggest uprisings by the tribe against the colonial power in history. The war ensued following the Kukis refusal to join the Labour Corps during the First World War and it lasted for almost three years. The war has been variously known as the 'Kuki Rising', 'Anglo-Kuki War', 'Great Kuki Rebellion', and 'Zou Gaal'. The centenary celebration of the War was held in three different places having connection with the important episodes of the war starting from 2017 at Longpi village, 2018 at Songpi village and the closing ceremony at C Aisan in 2019.

The well-attended meeting was chaired by Dr.Lamkholal Doungel, convener of the Anglo-Kuki War Anniversary celebration and chairman of the Kuki Worship Service Dibrugarh. Dr. Doungel underscored the need to bring back the past glory of the great Kukis. In the same breath, he also said, "We must uphold and cherish the spirit of the Anglo-Kuki War; and today it is requisite that we outthink our enemy for successful and progressive community."

Following one-minute silence as a mark of respect and commemoration of the sacrifices made by the war heroes, Thongminhao Haokip, Deputy Commandant, CISF, in his address said, "The theme is aptly chosen in the light of our present-day situation of disunity and failure to respect and give regard to the past history and traditional ethos that once united our forefathers, that gave them strength and courage to fight the Britishers."

Besides mass prayer conducted for unity and integrity of the Kuki nation, speeches from senior members were highlights of the function. The meeting concluded with paying floral tributes to the Anglo-Kuki War heroes and lighting ceremonial lamps in respect of all the war patriots who sacrificed their lives in defence of the motherland.

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