The 21st of January is a significant date in the history of India. It marks the day when three northeastern states, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura, attained full statehood status under the North Eastern Region (Reorganisation) Act, 1971. This milestone is celebrated as Statehood Day in these states. It is important to note how the Prime Minister and other leaders hailed the distinct cultures and traditions of these three states on this day.
The Journey of Manipur’s Integration into India
Before India gained independence on 15th August 1947, the Indian union was formed mainly through the peaceful negotiations with various princely states. The rulers of these states signed a document known as the ‘Instrument of Accession’. Signing this document symbolised their agreement to become part of the Union of India. The Maharaja of Manipur, Bodhachandra Singh, was among those who signed this instrument. Aided by public opinion, the Maharaja held elections in June 1948, turning Manipur into a constitutional monarchy. Despite strong differences in the Legislative Assembly regarding the merger, Manipur eventually aligned with India in September 1949.
The Integration of Tripura into India
Tripura was a princely state until its fusion with the Indian union on 15th November 1949. Child ruler Kirri Bikram Mannikya ascended the throne after the demise of his father, King Bir Bikram, on 17th May 1947. However, the young king’s mother, Queen Kanchan Prabha, assumed control as he was too young to rule. Her leadership played a crucial role in facilitating Tripura’s transition into the Indian Union.
Key Facts about the Statehood of Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura
| State | Date of Merger | Key Figure |
|---|---|---|
| Manipur | 21st January 1972 | Maharaja Bodhachandra Singh |
| Tripura | 15th November 1949 | Queen Kanchan Prabha |
| Meghalaya | 2nd April 1970 | Leaders of Garo and Khasi regions |
Incorporation of Meghalaya into India
In 1947, the rulers of the Garo and Khasi regions acquiesced to join the newly independent country of India. Meghalaya, a small hilly state in the northeastern region of India, initially became an autonomous state within Assam on 2nd April 1970. However, a significant shift happened in 1972.
The Landmark Changes of 1972
The year 1972 was pivotal for India’s Northeast as it marked a substantial alteration in its political landscape. The two Union Territories of Manipur and Tripura and the Sub-State of Meghalaya were granted statehood, signifying a new chapter in their historical and political journey. This change not only redrew the political map of Northeast India but also reinforced the fabric of unity in diversity, the bedrock of Indian identity.
