Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh inaugurated the infrastructure for the relocation of the Assam Rifles at a ceremony organized by the Department of Art and Culture, Government of Manipur, at Langthabal Old Palace, Canchipur, on Saturday.
The construction is being implemented by the Planning and Development Authority, Government of Manipur.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted that while Manipur is going through challenging times, the relocation of the Assam Rifles camp had been a long-standing demand of the people, including the faculty and students of Manipur University. He emphasized the historical significance of the land to the people of Manipur.
The Chief Minister acknowledged that the relocation process required careful planning to identify an alternative location.
He commended Major General Ravroop Singh, SM IG-IGAR (S), for taking the matter seriously and expediting the process.
He informed that the Assam Rifles had vacated 10 acres of land adjacent to the Manipur University campus out of the total 20 acres occupied. Plans are underway to restore historical structures at the site.
The Tourism Department, in consultation with the Department of Art and Culture, has proposed restoration work, and Rs 20 crore has already been sanctioned for the project. Experts’ recommendations will be sought during the restoration process to ensure the preservation of the site’s heritage.
The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for recognizing the importance of the relocation and supporting the initiative.
He also lauded the Assam Rifles for maintaining a clean and tidy environment during their occupation and urged the people of Manipur to preserve and honor the sanctity of the site now handed back to them.
Additionally, he announced plans for constructing a new museum equipped with modern technology at the Samadhi of Maharaja Gambhir Singh in Langthabal.
A proposal for Rs 40 crore had been submitted, of which Rs 10 crore has been sanctioned, and construction will commence soon.
CM Biren Singh emphasized that the Assam Rifles are not adversaries of the people of Manipur but are present for the security and welfare of the region.
He stressed the importance of fostering understanding and cooperation between the people and security forces to ensure peace and development in the state.
The Chief Minister also underscored the need for greater awareness about Manipur in mainland India. He encouraged efforts to promote the state’s unique history and culture through publications and educational initiatives.
Touching on the issue of drug abuse, the Chief Minister reiterated the State Government’s commitment to the “War on Drugs” campaign to protect Manipur’s youth and safeguard the future of indigenous communities.
He called for unity among the people to tackle this menace collectively.
Major General Ravroop Singh expressed gratitude to the State Government for providing modern infrastructure at the new site, which can accommodate an entire company.
He acknowledged the cultural and historical significance of the land and emphasized the importance of mutual respect and cooperation between security forces and the public.
The event included ceremonial rituals and the unveiling of a plaque led by the Chief Minister, accompanied by cabinet ministers and MLAs, marking the formal initiation of the new infrastructure.
Also Read: Meghalaya locals demand halt to overloaded trucks on crucial road