Imphal : The desecration of the brass statue of Maharaja Gambhir Singh at Langthabal in Manipur and the theft of a portion of the monument have drawn strong condemnation, with calls for the immediate arrest of those responsible.

In a statement, the incident was described as an affront to Manipur’s historical legacy and cultural heritage. The authorities concerned have been urged to act swiftly and decisively to identify and apprehend those involved.

The statement also called for exemplary action against the perpetrators in accordance with the law, stressing that acts of vandalism and theft targeting historical monuments cannot be treated lightly.

Emphasising the need to safeguard the state’s cultural heritage, it said the protection of historical monuments was a collective responsibility and should remain an uncompromising priority.