Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 05:
A two day seminar to deliberate on the fate of Sana Konung on the theme, �Sana Konungda Government Amadi Meeyamgi Mityeng� (Government's and People's Views on Royal Palace), organised by Sana Konung Semgat Sagat Lup (SAKSAL) kicked off at the State Guest House today.
The opening function was graced by MK Binodini as the chief guest while the president of SAKSAL, Ch Gopalmacha presided.
Former Director of MU's College Development Council, Dr Y Mohendro was the guest of honour.
Addressing the gathering, MK Binodini reminded all that the culture and tradition of the land and people are closely linked to the Royal Palace and the Kingship and appealed to all the participants to minutely discuss whether the Palace and Kingship should be abolished altogether or preserved.
Recalling her early days at the Palace, Binodini said that the Palace is today no longer the same place where she spent her childhood days.
The decision of the Government to develop and preserve the Royal Palace is indeed welcome but due thoughts should be given on how the Government plans to go about it, she cautioned.
The Government should not come under the impression that they can force their agenda and bull doze their way through while developing the Palace, said Binodini and added that the Government did not exactly act properly when it first announced its plans to develop the Palace.
In his speech, Prof Y Mohendro said that Manipur is one of the oldest kingdoms in South East Asia.
To preserve history and culture, the ties of the people with the Kingship cannot be severed.
Setting the record straight, Professor Mohendro said that it was not only the male members of the Royalty who occupied the throne, but women as well.
Laikhurembi was one such lady who ruled Manipur, he recalled.
Archaeology Superintendent S Bheigya, former Dean of Social Sciences of MU Prof Ksh Bimola and former Principal of Presidency College, Kangjiya Gopal presented papers during the seminar today.