Condemnation of the Demolition of the Historic Manipur Rajbari in Shillong

Ref No: 20251011PR                                                                                                     Date:11/10/2025

It is with deep shock and grave concern that we have learned of the demolition of the Manipuri Rajbari, the historic Redlands Building in Shillong, reportedly by the Government of Manipur. This site holds immense historical and emotional significance for the people of Manipur and for the collective political memory of the state. It was within the walls of this very building that the Manipur Merger Agreement of 1949 was signed — a defining moment that changed the course of Manipur’s modern history.

What makes this demolition especially disturbing is that in June 2022, the then Hon’ble Chief Minister of Manipur publicly assured the people that the Rajbari would be renovated while preserving its original structure. In spite of this assurance, the building has been razed to the ground — and most regrettably, this has taken place during President’s Rule, without any transparent explanation to the public, ignoring appeals from concerned citizens to preserve this site of immense heritage value. More recently, on September 10, 2025, the Shillong Manipuri community had submitted a representation and met the Commissioner Arts and Culture, Govt. of Manipur for restoration and preservation of the historical building.

Such an action reflects a serious disregard for public sentiment and historical responsibility. 

We therefore:

  1. Demand immediate clarification from the Hon’ble Governor of Manipur on the circumstances under which this demolition was authorised and executed.
  2. Seek a public disclosure of the decision-making process, including whether heritage assessments, consultations, or expert reviews were carried out.
  3. Call upon the Government to honour the people’s sentiments by preserving and reusing as much of the original materials and ensure that any future reconstruction strictly adheres to the original architectural design and heritage aesthetics of the Rajbari.
  4. Urge the authorities to develop a comprehensive heritage preservation policy to prevent such incidents from happening again.

The demolition of the Manipuri Rajbari is a deep wound to the collective memory and dignity of the people of Manipur. Even though the building is gone, its historical spirit must be honoured, not erased.

We stand in solidarity with all those who have worked to preserve this site and call upon the public, scholars, activists, and institutions to speak in one voice to safeguard Manipur’s heritage.

Issued by:
Media Coordinator, Meitei Alliance