Dr. Chongtham Narendra Releases Landmark Book "Manipur gi Aingi Puwaree Amadi Paojel" on Manipur’s Legal History
Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, December 21, 2025: In a significant addition to the state's literary archive, a new book titled "Manipur gi Aingi Puwaree Amadi Paojel" (Legal History of Manipur), authored by the renowned Dr. Chongtham Narendra Singh, was formally released on Saturday.
The book release function was held at the DOSUYALI Hall in Kwakeithel Moirangpurel Leikai, adhering to traditional formalities. Published by Giribala & Sister Publication, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, the book promises to fill a long-standing void in the documentation of the region's legal heritage.
Bridging the Gap in Legal Literature
The event was graced by distinguished personalities, including L. Birendrakumar Sharma, Retired District Session Judge, Manipur, as the Chief Guest. Longjam Joychandra Singh, President of the Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, Imphal, presided over the function, while Prof. Nahakpam Aruna Devi, Former Dean of the School of Humanities, Manipur University, attended as the Guest of Honour.
Speaking on the motivation behind penning this scholarly work, the author, Dr. Chongtham Narendra Singh, highlighted the scarcity of dedicated resources on the subject. "Until now, there has been no specific book entirely dedicated to the legal history of our land. While various historians and writers have touched upon legal aspects in scattered documents and history books, a comprehensive volume was missing," Dr. Narendra explained.
He further added, "I wrote this book with the hope that it will serve as a vital reference for the younger generation—our children and grandchildren—when they seek to research or understand the evolution of law in Manipur."
The Need for Legal Awareness and Rule of Law
L. Birendrakumar Sharma, in his address, emphasized the critical importance of legal literacy in the state. He commended Dr. Narendra’s effort, noting that such a book would be instrumental in educating the masses. He also suggested that translating the book into English would allow the global community to understand Manipur's rich legal traditions.
Touching upon a pressing social issue, the Retired District Session Judge expressed concern over the prevalence of "Mob Justice" in Manipur. "It is unfortunate that instances of mob justice are becoming frequent. The public must exercise patience and faith in the rule of law. Instead of taking the law into their own hands, people should allow the legal system to award appropriate punishment to the guilty. The law plays a massive role in maintaining a just and balanced society," he stated.
Preserving Manipur’s Historical Identity
Longjam Joychandra Singh lauded Dr. Narendra’s contribution to Manipuri literature, stating that documenting the history of a land is essential for its survival. "Dr. Narendra holds a significant place in our literature. Today, he has gifted us a well-researched history of Manipur's legal system, which is a moment of joy for us all," he remarked.
Reflecting on the state's heritage, Joychandra added, "Manipur is a land with a distinct history dating back to 33 AD. We possess our own language, script, and culture. Manipuri literature, recognized by the Sahitya Akademi in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, boasts a long and proud history. A land with such a rich legacy will never live in subservience."
The event concluded on a high note, with several prominent figures from the literary and legal communities in attendance, marking a new chapter in the preservation of Manipur’s intellectual history.
✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team
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