Neglect, indifference writ large on Langthabal Konung
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 21 2025: A heritage site and a piece of Manipuri history, the Langthabal Konung in Canchipur now stands shabby and in ruins sans any visible conservative actions to return the old palace to its original glory.

Located inside Manipur University campus, the site was occupied by the Assam Rifles for decades, restricting public visits.

After years of agitation, the Assam Rifles left the site on November 30, 2024, and relocated to the southern side of the Langthabal hillock.

Now that members of the public are able to freely visit the Palace, the ruins that have been left behind have emerged.

Even though the old palace is a heritage site, there has been zero effort to preserve it, said a middle-aged person who was visiting the site.

Neglect, indifference writ large on Langthabal Konung

"There is no caretaker.

The palace is run-down.

The structures are all in ruins.

The approach roads are in dilapidated conditions," he said.

A Mandap near the palace Temple has no roof, and most structures need proper renovation and reconstruction for preservation.

"For decades, people were not allowed to visit the Palace.

Many have died without getting a chance to visit it.

Now, the security forces have been relocated and people are able to see the Palace and learn a piece of history.

Proper care must be taken to preserve this treasure," said the man.

Known as the Old Palace, it was established by Maharaja Gambhir Singh in 1827.It is located on a plot measuring 22.86 acres.

The Old Palace was listed as a heritage site under Manipur Ancient & Historical Monument And Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1976 and Rules 1979 by the State Government on September 9, 1981 .

On the foothill of Langthabal hill, a Ras Mandal Pukhri (pond) was constructed during the time of Maharaja Bhagyachandra Singh, said Sapam Bheigya, former Joint Director, Art and Culture Department.

During the time of Churachand Maharaj, a summer palace was constructed on the hill near what is now the Manipuri Department, he said.

The Assam Rifles were stationed in the Old Palace during the time of Irengbam Tompok as the Home Minister, he added.

The Old Palace is a heritage site, and as such it is the duty of the State to take up appropriate steps to preserve it, he added.