A legal reference book titled Manipurgi Aingi Puwaree Amadi Paojel (Legal History of Manipur), authored by Dr Chongtham Narendra Singh, was released on Friday at Dosuyali Hall, Kwakeithel Moirangpurel, in Imphal West district.
The book has been published by Giribala and Sister Publication, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The release function was attended by retired District and Sessions Judge L Birendrakumar Sharma, President of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad Imphal and former Dean of the School of Humanities, Manipur University Professor Nahakpam Aruna Devi, and President of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad Imphal Longjam Joychandra Singh, among others.
Speaking on the occasion, author Dr Chongtham Narendra Singh said that although references to Manipur’s legal history exist in the writings of some scholars, there has been no comprehensive book dedicated solely to the subject. He said the book was written with the objective of assisting students and researchers interested in understanding the legal history of Manipur. Dr Narendra also expressed satisfaction over the growing interest in legal literature.
Releasing the book, retired District and Sessions Judge L Birendrakumar Sharma said the publication would play an important role in spreading legal awareness among the people. He said the book would serve as a valuable resource and added that an English translation would further help introduce Manipur’s legal history to a wider audience across the world. He also observed that the rule of law is essential for justice and social stability, and legal knowledge helps society move in the right direction.
Manipuri Sahitya Parishad Imphal President Longjam Joychandra Singh said Dr Chongtham Narendra Singh holds a significant place in Manipuri literature and described the publication of a dedicated legal history of Manipur as a commendable contribution. He noted that understanding the history of a land is essential to understanding the land itself.
He further said Manipur is an ancient land with a recorded history dating back many centuries, with its own language, script and culture, and added that Manipuri literature, recognised by the Sahitya Akademi, reflects this rich heritage. He said such scholarly works strengthen the intellectual foundation of the society.
A large number of scholars, writers and members of the public attended the book release function.