Remembering Manmohan Singh: On the Return of Kangla to Manipuri People

The return of the Kangla Fort to the people of Manipur stands as a defining moment in India’s democratic history—a rare instance where political leadership demonstrated both empathy and pragmatism. This landmark decision, orchestrated by then Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in 2004, not only resonated deeply with the sentiments of the Meitei people but also reflected the transformative power of responsive governance.
Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away yesterday, leaves behind a legacy of visionary leadership and compassion. His decision to return Kangla to the people of Manipur exemplified his ability to address the emotional and cultural aspirations of marginalized communities, even in the face of political challenges.
Kangla Fort, situated in the heart of Imphal, holds profound historical and religious significance for the Meitei community. As the ancient capital of Manipur, Kangla was the seat of power for generations of Manipuri kings and a symbol of the region’s cultural heritage. Beyond its historical prominence, Kangla embodies spiritual reverence, as it is intricately tied to Sanamahi worship, a faith central to the Meitei identity. The occupation of Kangla by security forces, notably the Assam Rifles, was thus perceived as an affront to the cultural and spiritual ethos of the people.
The events leading up to the fort’s return were marked by anguish and protest. The custodial death and alleged rape of Thangjam Manorama in 2004 ignited widespread outrage across Manipur. The incident exposed the pervasive abuse of power under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) and galvanized a mass movement demanding justice, accountability, and the withdrawal of security forces from Kangla. The protests were unrelenting, underscored by acts of desperation—including the shocking nude protest by Manipuri women outside the Kangla gates, with banners proclaiming “Indian Army, Rape Us.” The message was unambiguous: the people’s patience had reached its limit.
Against this backdrop, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s decision to return Kangla to the people was both bold and humane. By understanding the emotional pulse of the Meitei community, he shifted away from the hardline approach that had characterized the state’s handling of dissent in the Northeast. The Prime Minister’s gesture was not merely symbolic; it was a profound acknowledgment of the cultural and emotional importance of Kangla and a recognition of the grievances that had fueled the protests. His visit to Manipur and the formal handover of the fort marked a moment of healing and hope for the region.
The return of Kangla exemplifies the essence of good leadership: the ability to listen, empathize, and act decisively for the greater good. Dr. Singh’s intervention showcased the importance of engaging with marginalized voices and addressing historical injustices. It was a departure from the militarized governance that had long alienated the people of Manipur, signaling a willingness to pursue reconciliation over repression.
However, this decision highlights the enduring challenges in India’s Northeast. While the return of Kangla was a victory for the people, the broader issues of militarization, human rights, and development remain unresolved. The AFSPA continues to be a contentious issue, and the scars of past injustices linger.
In retrospect, the return of Kangla to the people of Manipur is a testament to the potential of democratic governance to bridge divides and restore trust. It is a lesson in the power of understanding and addressing the cultural and emotional aspirations of a community. Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy in this context is one of hope—a reminder that even in the face of deep-seated challenges, meaningful change is possible when leaders prioritize humanity over hostility.