Imphal: Construction workers in Imphal West district of Manipur stumbled upon what appeared to be relics from World War II while digging earth at a site in Langthabal Phumlou Konjil Leikai on Tuesday.
The find triggered interest among historians and authorities alike.
Several rusted items were pulled out of the ground during excavation for a government construction project. Among the relics were rusted empty ammunition cases, water bottles, grenades, spades, alcohol bottles, and a heavily corroded metal box.
“The site where these items were discovered is close to the Canchipur hills. Historical records suggest that the site was a key location for Allied forces during the Battle of Imphal in 1944. It’s very likely that these relics belonged to Allied troops stationed here,” an official said.
“Canchipur served as one of the prominent military encampments during the Allied defence against the Imperial Japanese Army. The Japanese had surrounded the hills of Manipur, but they could not break through the Allied lines in the Imphal Valley.”
The Battle of Imphal, fought alongside the Battle of Kohima, is considered one of the most pivotal confrontations of the Burma Campaign during World War II. The conflict involved Japanese forces and Indian National Army troops under the banner of Azad Hind Fauj, clashing with British-led Allied soldiers. Military historians regard the battles as turning points that led to the retreat of Japanese forces from Southeast Asia.
Following the discovery, members of the Second World War Imphal Campaign Foundation arrived at the scene and assisted in further excavation and documentation of the relics.
“Our team rushed to the site as soon as we got the report. We have recovered and secured several items that are consistent with those believed to be used by Allied soldiers during World War II. These finds provide more evidence of the intense military activity that once took place in this region,” said a representative of the foundation.
A police team also reached the spot and safely recovered suspected explosive materials, including hand grenades.
Authorities said that experts will assess the recovered items to determine their origin and historical value. Security officials have cordoned off the area to prevent public interference in investigations.
