Six student bodies condemn demolition of historic Red Land Building 

Six major student organizations of Manipur today strongly condemned the demolition of the historic Red Land Building in Shillong, calling it an attempt to erase the state’s history, identity, and political legacy. The groups—including the Manipur Students’ Federation (MSF), Democratic Students’ Alliance of Manipur (DESAM), Apunba Ireipakki Maheiroi Sinpanglup (AIMS), Kangleipak Students’ Association (KSA), and Students’ Union of Kangleipak (SUK)—warned authorities against actions that undermine the heritage and political identity of the erstwhile nation.
Speaking to media, Hijam Roshan, co-convenor of the six-student body alliance, highlighted the Planning and Development Authority’s (PDA) clarification that the proposal for renovation or construction of a replica of the Red Land Building had been approved by the NEC in July 2023. He questioned why the Arts and Culture Department remained silent on the matter despite its national importance.
Drawing a parallel to the historic burning of the puyas, Roshan said, “Another Shantidas is living among us today, and the student bodies will not let this go unchallenged.” He raised concerns about a possible hidden agenda behind the demolition of the heritage structure and vowed that the students’ organizations would continue to demand accountability.
The student leaders called for transparency in decision-making related to heritage sites and urged the government to respect and preserve Manipur’s historical and political legacy.