Statues of Gambhir Singh, Nara Singh, Herachandra vandalised
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 13 2026: In an apparent act of vandalism and theft, bronze statues of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, Nara Singh and Sana Herachandra erected at Maharaj Gambhir Singh Memorial Complex at Langthabal Kunja (Canchipur) were found desecrated, with several parts missing.

According to reports culled from the spot, the sword held by the statue of Maharaj Gambhir Singh seated on a horseback and a portion of its leg were found missing.

From the statue of Nara Singh, the sword was found missing, while three discs on the shield of Sana Herachandra's statue were missing.

Statues of Gambhir Singh, Nara Singh, Herachandra vandalised

The knuckle guard of the sword held by Herachandra's statue was also found loosened.

Reportedly, some hacksaw blades were found discarded near the memorial complex.

The statue of Maharaj Gambhir Singh was unveiled by former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi on January 9, 2014, on the Maharaj's death anniversary, while the other two statues were unveiled by former Chief Minister N Biren Singh in 2019 .

It is reported that the missing parts of the statues were first noticed by some school van drivers.

Meanwhile, the Department of Art and Culture said that an FIR has been registered at Kakwa police station regarding the incident.

In a statement issued by its Director, the department said that the Samadhi of Maharaj Gambhir Singh is a protected historical monument under the Manipur Ancient & Historical Monument & Archaeological Sites & Remains Act, 1976 .

While the police conduct its investigation, the department said that it is committed to restore the statue of the Maharaj before the observance of his death anniversary on January 9, 2027 .

It is also stated that CCTV cameras would be installed and additional security personnel deployed at the memorial complex.

Notably, Maharaj Gambhir Singh, his brother Nara Singh and Prince Herachandra played key roles in liberating Kangleipak from Burmese occupation following the Chahi Taret Khuntakpa (1819-1826) .

Langthabal AC MLA Karam Shyam, while inspecting the site, said that the incident amounts to insulting the legendary heroes.

He expressed confidence that the authorities would nab and penalise those found responsible for the desecration and theft.

Art and Culture Director K Dinamani, on the other hand, sought cooperation from the public in identifying those involved in the desecration and theft.

Veteran politician O Joy also visited the memorial complex and inspected the statues.

Condemning the incident, he said that desecration of the memorial site could only be the handiwork of traitors who have no respect for the history of Manipur.

He urged the Government to arrest and penalise those responsible for the act and ensure that such incidents do not recur.