RS MP lauded for raising Kabaw Valley issue in Parliament
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 12 2025: "By raising the issue of Kabaw Valley in the Parliament, Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba has ensured that the matter is officially recorded, thereby securing its place in the history," stated political activist Sapam Kangleipak describing it as an important topic for the contemporary society to thoroughly discuss.

Briefing the media at his Nongada residence on Wednesday, Kangleipal said that Kyampok Lamjao, popularly referred to as Kabaw Valley, was "lent" by the British on January 9, 1834 to Burma (now Myanmar).

The then king, Chin-glen Nongdren Khomba or Gambhir Singh passed away soon after.

Some claimed he died of heartbreak after learning that Kabaw Valley was handed over without his or the people's knowledge, while others say his death was unrelated to the matter, he related.

The current generation observes the Seven Years' Devastation every year on January 9, which is also the death anniversary of Gambhir Singh.

Meanwhile, in the same month of January in 1834, the British issued another notice informing that a monthly tribute of 500 'sika' must be paid to the then king.

In this regard, many patriots argue that the Kabaw Valley was neither given away nor sold, questioning why would Manipur earn a monthly revenue if that were the case? However, under the influence of the outsiders, they would never guide the people toward patriotism, he remarked.

Kangleipal continued Kabaw Valley had a relationship with Manipur as long as the tribute was paid.

However, the then PM Jawaharlal Nehru put an end to the same.

He said that even now, attempts are being made to make the people forget Kabaw Valley is/was part of Manipur.

The people need to understand who is supporting outsiders and who is truly patriotic towards Manipur amid the prevailing crisis, he asserted.

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