The Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 was a brief but bloody conflict that marked a turning point in the history of Manipur, a princely state in Northeast India. It pitted the British Empire against the kingdom of Manipur, culminating in the demise of Manipuri independence and its absorption into British India.
Causes of the Conflict
At the heart of the conflict lay a power struggle within the Manipuri royal family. Maharaja Surchandra Singh, the ruler of Manipur, faced opposition from his brothers, leading to internal strife and instability. This internal turmoil provided the British with an opportunity to intervene in the kingdom's affairs.
The British, with their expanding colonial ambitions, were keen to assert greater control over Manipur, a strategically important region bordering Burma. They saw the internal conflict as a pretext to strengthen their influence and secure their interests in the region.
Events Leading to the War
The immediate trigger for the war was a palace coup in 1890. Maharaja Surchandra Singh was deposed by his brother Kulachandra Singh, who ascended the throne. The British, disapproving of this change and seeking to reinstate Surchandra, dispatched Chief Commissioner of Assam, James Quinton, to Manipur to resolve the situation.
Quinton's mission was to recognize Kulachandra as the new king while arresting Tikendrajit Singh, the Senapati (commander-in-chief) of the Manipuri army and a key figure in the coup. However, this plan backfired dramatically.
Key Figures: Tikendrajit Singh and Thangal General
Tikendrajit Singh, a strong nationalist and a skilled military leader, was determined to resist British interference. He saw the British attempt to arrest him as an insult to Manipur's sovereignty. His defiance played a crucial role in escalating the situation towards war.
Thangal General, another prominent figure in the Manipuri resistance, was known for his bravery and loyalty. He commanded the Manipuri forces during the Battle of Khongjom, the decisive battle of the war.
The Battle of Khongjom
The Battle of Khongjom, fought on 25th April 1891, was a testament to the courage and valor of the Manipuri soldiers. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, they fought fiercely against the British forces. Thangal General, along with Major Paona Brajabasi, led the Manipuri defense, inflicting heavy casualties on the British. However, the superior firepower of the British ultimately led to their victory.
The battle is remembered as a symbol of Manipuri resistance against British imperialism. It is commemorated as Khongjom Day in Manipur, honoring the sacrifices of the Manipuri soldiers who fought for their kingdom's independence.
Consequences of the War
The Anglo-Manipur War resulted in a decisive British victory.
Loss of Sovereignty: Manipur lost its independence and became a princely state under British rule.
Execution of Leaders: Tikendrajit Singh, Thangal General, and other leaders of the resistance were captured and executed by the British.
Political Reorganization: The British installed a new king, Churachand Singh, and implemented administrative reforms to solidify their control over Manipur.
Social and Economic Impact: The war had a profound impact on Manipuri society. The loss of independence led to economic decline and social unrest. The memory of the war and the sacrifices made continue to shape Manipuri identity and inspire nationalist sentiments.
The Anglo-Manipur War serves as a reminder of the resistance faced by the British Empire during its colonial expansion. It highlights the courage of those who fought against overwhelming odds to defend their freedom and sovereignty.