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DIMAPUR — The Poumai Naga Union (PNU), along with its affiliated organisations—the Poumai Naga Women's Union (PNNM) and Poumai Naga Students Union (PNTM)—observed on Tuesday the 37th anniversary of Onae Reh Dah—Operation Bluebird.
As part of the commemoration, a flag-hoisting ceremony at half-mast was conducted at the PNU, PNTM, and PNNM offices, according to a press release. Also, in a show of solidarity, the offices of the three Poumai frontal organisations remained closed.
In the evening, a candlelight service was held at Khabung Karong of Senapati district in Manipur. The event was attended by leaders, citizens, students, youth, children, and elderly individuals from all walks of life, as well as the survivors.
RB Pani, president of PNU, stated on the occasion that the day was observed to respect and show solidarity with all the victims and to share in the grief and pain of those from different villages.
TS Khaie, chairman of Taphou Onaeme, spoke about the loss of his mother during the operation and detailed the cruel treatment and severe hardships faced by innocent villagers. He also highlighted the destruction of educational institutions and places of worship.
The release mentioned that the operation resulted in 27 deaths, three rapes, five instances of sexual molestation, two forced public births, 340 cases of torture, 96 arrests and detentions, 125 burned houses, 175 dismantled houses, 10 destroyed churches, and six demolished schools.
It added that many victims' stories remain unrecorded.