Imphal, 18 June 2016 ( Evening News) : Thousands of people from all walks of life today offered homage to the 18 martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the protection of the territorial integrity of Manipur on June 18 in 2001. The people were protesting against the Bangkok Declaration which extended ceasefire between Govt of India and NSCN-IM without territorial limits and the day is commemorated as “The Great June Uprising, unity day. Since early morning people came to the martyrs memorial memorial at Kekrupat to pay their respect and offer floral tributes to the 18 martyrs. People belonging to different ethnic communities took part in the observance organised by Organising Committee, United Committee Manipur and All Manipur United Clubs Organisation.  Multi faith prayers held in the early morning marked the beginning of the commemoration of the day. Martial artists offered general salute to the martyrs. After the salute the representatives of the organising committee led the people in offering floral tributes to the memorial of the martyrs. Family members of the martyrs were among those who offered their respect. Home Minister, Gaikhangam, Social Welfare Minister, Ak. Merabai, Congress and opposition MLA also joined the mass in paying homage to the martyrs. Representatives of various  Civil Society Organisations, students and individuals offered flowers at the memorial.