Manipur BJP MLA Rajkumar Imo Singh has urged Governor AK Bhalla to investigate who authorised the demolition of the iconic Redlands Building, also known as ‘Manipur Rajbari’, in Shillong — a site deeply connected to Manipur’s history.

The MLA’s appeal comes amid widespread outrage and protests following the demolition of the heritage structure. The Manipur Planning and Development Authority (PDA), the implementing agency for the “reconstruction/restoration” project, clarified on Sunday that the building will be reconstructed while retaining its original architectural design.

In a letter to the Governor, Imo Singh questioned the decision-making behind the demolition, writing: “Why was this heritage structure not preserved or restored, despite its historic value? How could such a culturally and nationally significant monument be brought down without due consideration of its legacy? Who authorised the destruction of a heritage monument of national significance?”

The Redlands Building holds immense historical importance as the venue where Manipur’s last ruler, Maharaja Bodhachandra Singh, signed the Merger Agreement with the Union of India in September 1949. The structure, built in the early 1940s, also served as the royal residence of the Maharaja during his time in Shillong.

According to the PDA, only a dilapidated section of the building was initially dismantled. However, concerns over the stability of the remaining portion led to the complete demolition of the structure.

“The demolition of such a site, revered by generations in both Manipur and Meghalaya, has rightfully triggered widespread shock and outrage,” Imo Singh noted in his letter, calling the act “a tragic erasure of a vital chapter of shared history.”