Manipur government is planning to refurbish the century-old palace building under Historical Monument Act and not trying to encroach the rights of the titular King Sanajaoba, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh has told the state Assembly.
"The Cabinet's decision to this effect some days ago was to improve the present palace building after consulting experts," Singh said, replying to a question from Opposition leader I Ibohalbi of Trinamool Congress yesterday.
Stating that before merging with India in 1949, Manipur had been an independent kingdom for thousands of years, he said the government recognised Sanajaoba as the last king and there was no question of encroaching the customary rights of the king.
The government had discussed the issue several times with the king and assured him that the government was ready to help him in all respect, he said.
Ibohalbi said the government should hold talks with representatives of various organisations opposing the government decision.
