*Memorial Statue of Unsung Freedom Fighter Lotiyang Taloh Inaugurated at Yagrung, Pasighat*

Memorial Statue of Unsung Freedom Fighter Lotiyang Taloh Inaugurated at Yagrung, Pasighat

IPAK DIYUM

Pasighat, Jan. 11:-In a solemn yet inspiring ceremony, a memorial statue of the unsung freedom fighter Lotiyang Taloh, a heroic figure of the Anglo-Abor War (1911–12), was inaugurated today at Yagrung (Biipong). The statue has been constructed by the Matkir Welfare Society (MWS) as a lasting tribute to the valour, sacrifice, and indomitable spirit of one of Arunachal Pradesh’s forgotten heroes.

The inauguration programme was graced by Hon’ble MLA, Pasighat East, Shri Tapi Darang as the Chief Guest, Hon’ble MLA, 37th West Pasighat, Shri Ninong Ering as the Guest of Honour, and Er. Taduram Darang (SE) as the Special Guest,Shri Bosiram Siram, APCC President in the presence of dignitaries, community elders, and local residents.

The memorial has been erected in honour of Freedom Fighter Lotiyang Taloh, who played a pivotal role during the Anglo-Abor War of 1911–12, a historic resistance movement that culminated in the death of British colonial officer Noel Williamson and his party at Komsing. For his courageous defiance against colonial rule, Lotiyang Taloh, along with his accomplice, was captured by British sepoys in 1911. He was subsequently tried on 2nd April 1912 by a military court presided over by Mr. Bentick, assisted by Captain J.F.D. Coleridge and L.S. Smithers as assessors, and was sentenced to imprisonment—an enduring symbol of the harsh reprisals faced by indigenous freedom fighters.

In recognition of his invaluable contribution to India’s freedom movement, Lotiyang Taloh was posthumously honoured by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh during the celebrations of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ and was formally conferred the title of Freedom Fighter on 20th February 2023.

The land measuring 400 square metres for the construction of the statue was generously donated by Shri Ojong Taloh of Yagrung, reflecting the deep respect and collective pride of the community. The construction and memorial initiative was guided by a dedicated committee comprising Dr. Jeevan Taloh (Chairman), Shri Tapang Taloh Jr. (Vice-Chairman), Shri Tapang Taloh (President, MWS), Shri Osup Taloh (General Secretary, MWS), Shri Loki Taloh (President, Yagrung MWS), Shri Kamin Taloh (Secretary, Yagrung MWS), Dr. Tasi Taloh, Er. Tayor Taloh, Shri Tadang Taloh, Shri Tajom Taloh (Chief Advisor), and Dr. Tamut Taloh (Advisor).

Expressing immense pride and emotion, the members of the committee stated that the erection of the statue is not only a tribute to a freedom fighter from their own lineage but also a historic recognition of indigenous resistance and sacrifice. They earnestly appealed to the public to preserve and protect the memorial as a treasured heritage site, so that future generations may draw inspiration from the life and legacy of Lotiyang Taloh, an enduring symbol of courage, dignity, and patriotism.
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