The Anglo-Manipur war concluded on this day with British victory.
The British had helped Manipur during the first Anglo-Burmese war in early 19th century and Manipur became a British protectorate subsequently. In the last decades of the century the strategic importance of Manipur declined for the British with the annexation of upper Burma and it was felt that the British would introduce reforms in Manipur.
Surachandra Singh was the Maharaja then. His brother Tikendrajit Singh, who became suspicious of the British, became openly hostile towards the colonial powers and the king’s relationship with them. On September 21, 1890, Tikendrajit Singh staged a palace coup and installed another brother as king.
This led to two British campaigns in Manipur. The first was a failure, with many British soldiers executed.
On March 31, 1891, British launched a much bigger campaign. During a series of battles, Manipur suffered huge casualties.
On April 23, on the Khongjom hillock, the last battle of the Anglo-Manipur War was fought. Manipur lost many of its men. On April 27, Imphal fell. On August 13, 1891, Manipuri leaders, including Tikendrajit, were hanged.
On September 22, 1891, the young Meidingngu Churachand was placed on the throne.