'Declare Khwairamband Keithel a heritage site'
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 05 2024: Manipur Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba today appealed the Centre to declare Khwairamband Ema Keithel located in the heart of Imphal city as a living cultural heritage site under Article 51A of the Indian Constitution.

Taking opportunity of Zero Hour of the Rajya Sabha, the MP highlighted the uniqueness of Khwairamband Ema Keithel as one of the oldest marketplaces in Asia exclusively run by women.

Male vendors are not allowed to set up their stalls at the Khwairamband Ema Keithel, he informed the House.

Stating that the marketplace is not just a site of trade and commerce, he maintained that it occupies a big space in the socio-economic sphere of the State.

The women vendors of Khwairamband Ema Keithel also spearheaded the historic 1904 and 1939 Women's War against the British empire.

In addition, it stands as a testament to the ideal of women empowerment and an impressive example of "Nari Shakti" .

In consideration of the uniqueness of the Keithel and its link with Manipur history, the MP appealed to the Union Government to declare Khwairamband Ema Keithel as a living cultural heritage site under Article 51A of the Constitution and grant it protection as a place of National importance under Article 49 .

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