A towering symbol of national pride now graces the historic site of the Indian National Army (INA) headquarters in Moirang, as the tallest flagpole in North-East India was inaugurated on the occasion of the country’s 78th Independence Day.
The flag hoisted on a 165-foot-tall mast, stands as a tribute to the legacy of freedom fighters and the enduring spirit of India’s struggle for independence.
A historic moment recalled
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh presided over the ceremony, which took place at the INA headquarters complex in Moirang, Bishnupur district, where the INA soldiers had first unfurled their flag on Indian soil in 1944.
The site holds a pivotal place in the annals of India’s freedom struggle, as it was here that the INA, under the leadership of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, launched an all-out attack against British forces.
“Today, we proudly witness the unfurling of the tricolour at the historic INA headquarters in Moirang. This flagpole, the tallest in North-East India, is a symbol of our nation’s pride and glory,” said Chief Minister Biren Singh in a statement on X.
He added that the event not only commemorates the bravery of INA soldiers but also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters in the struggle for independence.
Restoration and preservation efforts
The ceremony also highlighted the state government’s efforts to preserve and restore the INA headquarters. A new architectural design has been constructed around the old building, preserving the historical integrity of the site while enhancing its prominence as a national landmark.
The INA Memorial’s Convenor, Y. Modhu Singh, lauded the government’s initiative, stating that the restoration would attract pilgrims and history enthusiasts from across the country.
“We want to convey our congratulations and appreciation to CM Biren Singh for showing keen interest and building a new structure above the old headquarters of INA without altering the old buildings. This will attract pilgrims from all across the country,” he remarked.
A family’s legacy
The house that served as the INA headquarters belonged to social activist Hemam Nilamani Singh and has been witness to some of the most iconic moments in India’s freedom struggle.
The grandson of Nilamani Singh, Hemam Nandkumar Singh, shared the story of how his grandfather joined the INA movement in 1944, turning his residence into the INA headquarters after the liberation of Moirang on April 14, 1944.
INA Museum: A treasure trove of history
Just a few metres away from the headquarters lies the INA museum, home to an array of letters, weapons, and other war memorabilia. Among its prized possessions are handwritten letters of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, which have been meticulously preserved and are on display for visitors.
“We have handwritten letters of Netaji and the original ones are displayed here. These items serve as a tangible connection to the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters,” Curator L. Sadhna Devi said.
The museum also features a life-sized bronze statue of Bose, a gift from West Bengal.
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