Manipur Government files FIR against Kuki militant group for renaming and capturing sacred hill of Meitei community

Imphal: The Manipur state government has taken legal action against the Kuki militant group, Kuki National Front (Military Council), for allegedly renaming and transforming a sacred hill into their camp.

The FIR was filed following the circulation of a photograph showing a signboard at the foothills of Thangjing Ching in Bishnupur district, which identified the site as “Kuki Army Camp.” Thangjing Ching is a revered pilgrimage site for followers of the Sanamahism religion, predominantly practised by the Meitei community.

In a letter dated May 20, 2024, Under Secretary (Land Resources) Mangoljao Kamei directed the Officer-In-Charge of Imphal Police Station to register a Zero FIR, noting that the Thangjing hill range falls under the jurisdiction of Henglep Police Station. The letter emphasised the historical significance of Thangjing Hill, which is part of the Churachandpur-Khoupum Protected Forests and a protected site under the Manipur Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1976.

The government’s letter stated that the unauthorised erection of a gate with the name “Thangting” violated both the Manipur Names of Places Act, 2024, and the historical preservation act.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh responded to the incident, stating, “The State Government has immediately taken up measures to book any group or individuals involved in changing existing names of places in the state.” He emphasised that a case has been registered under the Manipur Names of Places Act, 2024, addressing the unauthorised renaming of a portion of the Thangjing hill range as ‘Thangting.’

This legal move highlights the government’s commitment to preserving the historical and cultural integrity of Manipur, ensuring that sacred sites and protected areas are respected and maintained.