Leishemba Sanajaoba, Manipur’s lone Rajya Sabha MP and the state’s titular Meitei king, attended a meeting organized by the radical Meitei group Arambai Tenggol. Arambai Tenggol has gained prominence since the conflict in Manipur began in May last year and is alleged to be involved in violence against the Kuki-Zomi community. The group has been named in multiple FIRs filed by Kuki-Zomi community members. Sanajaoba has been linked to Arambai Tenggol, with a photo showing him with members of the group at his residence. The group’s recent meeting demonstrates its ostensible public support among Meiteis.
Leishemba Sanajaoba, the grandson of Maharaja Bodhchandra, Manipur’s last ruler, holds symbolic value in the state. His grandfather signed an agreement in 1949 to merge Manipur with India. The merger remains contested, contributing to secessionist sentiments in Manipur. Sanajaoba, who initially stayed non-political, endorsed the BJP in the 2017 Manipur state elections and shared the stage with PM Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah. In 2019, he distanced himself from a “government-in-exile” announced in his name in the UK. His entry into politics was met with calls for him to abdicate the throne. Sanajaoba argued that his customary position held no meaningful power, emphasizing the need to make the office of the customary head truly functional.
The participation of Leishemba Sanajaoba in the controversial meeting raises questions about his association with Arambai Tenggol and its alleged involvement in violence against the Kuki-Zomi community. The situation underscores the complexities of political and cultural identity in Manipur, where historical issues, separatist sentiments, and the role of traditional leaders intersect with contemporary politics.
