Arunachal Pradesh Health and Family Welfare Minister Alo Libang on Tuesday inaugurated a memorial built in honour of Late Kengki Megu, an unsung hero of the 1894 Anglo-Abor War, at the banks of Sijon stream in Mopom circle of Upper Siang district.
The inauguration of the memorial constructed by the Megu Welfare Society of Damroh was a part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, an initiative of the Government of India to celebrate and commemorate 75 years of independence of progressive India and the glorious history of its people, culture and achievements.
Speaking on the occasion, Libang lauded the ultimate sacrifices made by Late Megu, Jongkeng Pertin and Koyi Lego during the Anglo-Abor War and exhorted the present generation not to forget the contributions and sacrifices made by their forefathers.
He exhorted the youths to work vigorously for the progress of the country.
Megu along with the Abors (Adis) of Adi-Pasi and neighbouring villages had fought the British on the historic battlefield of Pimpu-Dota.
The Adis, then called Abors, had raised strong resistance against the British expeditionary forces during the Abor Expedition of 1893-1894. The military expedition was carried out by the British for colonial expansion.
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In one such resistance war that took place on February 25, 1894, at Pimpu-Dota (situated between the Yamne River and the present Pasighat-Mariyang road), Megu while displaying indomitable courage and patriotism had shot many British sepoys and seriously wounded one Lieutenant East using poisoned arrows. This had forced the British forces to retreat without achieving any success.
The memorial also commemorates the bravery and supreme sacrifice made by Jongkeng Pertin and Koyi Lego who were also martyred on the battlefield of Pimpu-Dota, officials said.
Minister Liban was accompanied by the advisor to chief minister Tai Tagak, MLAs Lombo Tayeng, Ninong Ering, Gum Tayeng, Kaling Moyong, Kanggong Taku, Talem Aboh and Ojing Tasing on the occasion.
Art and Culture secretary Remo Kamki, director Tamuna Messar and Upper Siang deputy commissioner Taper Pada were also present.
