Imphal, Feb 12: Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has appealed to Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to intervene and safeguard the historic Koirengei airfield, describing it as a priceless World War II heritage site whose continued alteration has caused public concern.
In a statement posted on social media, Singh said that between 2017 and 2025, during his tenure as Chief Minister, he had written several times to successive Defence Ministers seeking preservation of the airfield, which served as a key Allied base during World War II. He added that multiple rounds of discussions were held between officials of the Defence Ministry and the Manipur government on the issue.
Expressing concern over recent developments, Singh said it “pains” him to witness ongoing destruction and fresh construction at the site despite years of appeals and consultations. He stated that these activities have created unease among civilians.
Referring to land allocations in the area, Singh said more than 300 acres had been donated to the Assam Rifles and are currently occupied by IGAR (South), while over 100 acres have been allotted to the Border Security Force near the Koirengei airfield.
Describing the site as part of the nation’s shared heritage, Singh urged the Defence Minister to take immediate steps to protect it in the larger interest of Manipur and the country.
