A Relook Into The Heritage Conservation And Preservation Of Artifacts In Manipur.

Abstract

Preservation initiatives at the Central and State levels in Manipur are falling short of expectations. This paper examines the legal framework surrounding the preservation of cultural heritage and artifacts recovery in Manipur, a northeastern state of India. It offers a comprehensive historical perspective on preservation endeavours, tracing back to royal court patronage in the colonial era and transitioning to state-regulated mechanisms post the state's merger with the Indian Union in 1949. And the study scrutinizes the influence of pivotal central legislations, such as the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act of 1904 and the Indian Treasure Trove Act of 1878, while also evaluating Manipur's state-level laws, including the Manipur Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1976 and rule of 1979 and its subsequent amendments in 1996. Although there are important legal steps, preservation efforts in Manipur have been sluggish, obturated by legislative loopholes, limited engagement of stakeholders, and inadequate identification of archaeological sites. This paper accentuates the imperative for legal reforms, collaborative endeavours between central and state authorities, and raises awareness to safeguard Manipur's rich cultural heritage.