A fresh controversy has erupted in Manipur after the office of Rajya Sabha MP and titular king Leishemba Sanajaoba accused a senior police official of forcibly entering the royal palace and threatening staff. The allegation has sharply divided public opinion and prompted the MP’s office to seek immediate suspension of the officer, even as the Manipur Police firmly deny any wrongdoing.
MP’s Office Alleges Misconduct, Breach of Sanctity
According to a formal complaint submitted by the MP’s personal assistant, the incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. on Thursday when Inspector General of Police (IGP) Themthing Ngashangva allegedly stormed into the Konung, the traditional royal palace of Manipur and the MP’s official residence.
The complaint states that the officer “shouted at and threatened” guards stationed at the palace, claiming they were sheltering internally displaced persons (IDPs) and supporting a local rally. The MP’s office stressed that the palace is not merely a residence but a historic and sacred cultural space, whose sanctity was “violated” by the intrusion.
In a strongly worded submission to the Governor of Manipur, the MP’s office demanded immediate suspension of the IGP, describing the officer’s conduct as “unacceptable” and detrimental to the dignity of both the MP and the royal household.
Police Deny Entry, Claim Obstruction During Protest
The Manipur Police have rejected the allegations, asserting that the IGP did not enter the palace premises at any point during the incident. Instead, they contend that the MP’s guards obstructed police operations as officers attempted to control a group of protesters near the palace.
Authorities said the confrontation occurred during a demonstration led by 50–60 volunteers from a civil society group opposing the timing of the Sangai Festival, Manipur’s annual tourism showcase. Police allege that the MP’s guards allowed protesters into the palace compound, disrupting security arrangements and complicating efforts to disperse the crowd.
The police also claimed that a woman protester assaulted the IGP and used racial slurs against him, prompting officers to take action “with restraint” and apply only “minimum force” to restore control.
A criminal case has since been registered at Porompat Police Station, with charges related to assaulting a public servant, obstructing official duty, using derogatory language, and breaching security barricades.
Context of Rising Tensions
The incident comes amid increasing public frustration linked to the ongoing displacement crisis and objections to the Sangai Festival being held while many residents remain unsettled. Several groups argue that festivities should be postponed until peace and rehabilitation are prioritized.
Thursday’s confrontation highlighted the fragile balance between managing public demonstrations and maintaining respect for Manipur’s traditional institutions. The palace controversy has added a new layer of tension to an already volatile climate.
Broader Implications
- The dispute underscores the sensitive overlap between traditional authority and contemporary political governance in Manipur.
- Allegations of misconduct by a high-ranking police officer against a respected cultural figure intensify concerns about official accountability.
- The police version, including claims of racial slurs and assault during the protest, raises questions about protest management and community relations.
- With the MP’s office escalating the matter to the Governor, the episode may lead to administrative reviews or disciplinary proceedings.
