Congress condemns 'demolition' of Manipur Rajbari in Shillong, demands accountability

The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has strongly condemned the demolition of the historic Manipur Rajbari located at Redlands in Laitumkhra, Shillong, and demanded strict action against those responsible. 

Addressing a press conference at Congress Bhavan, MPCC president Keisham Meghachandra described the incident as an unforgettable moment that has deeply hurt the sentiments of the people of Manipur.

He emphasised that the Rajbari was not merely a building or a piece of land but a living testament to Manipur’s rich history. “The demolition of this historic building, where the Manipur Merger Agreement was signed on September 21, 1949, and which came into effect on October 15, 1949, is very unfortunate. It reflects a mentality more focused on contracts and personal gain than on preserving our history,” Meghachandra said.

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According to the MPCC’s investigation through reliable sources, the demolition was allegedly carried out by the Planning & Development Authority (PDA) under the Department of Municipal Administration, Housing and Urban Development (MAHUD) without consulting the Department of Art and Culture or the Archaeology Department. Meghachandra urged the state government to conduct a proper investigation to determine whether any cabinet decision authorised the demolition or who directed the action.

The Congress party shared that the PDA had issued a work order to Meetei Construction Private Ltd on August 2, 2023, for “Infrastructure Development of Heritage Complex, Rajbari Shillong (Construction of guest house)” at an estimated cost of Rs 8,65,42,186. A subsequent work order in November 2023 by the same authority changed the title to “Infrastructure Development of Heritage Complex, Rajbari Shillong (Reconstruction/Restoration of heritage building and non-civil work).” Meghachandra pointed out that the demolition violated the terms of the work order, and the concerned authorities must investigate the matter.

He criticized the BJP-led government, calling the act a “blow to the collective memory, identity, and dignity of the Manipuri people,” and demanded that those involved be punished. “The Double Engine Government has once again shown its disregard for the sentiments and history of Manipur,” he stated.