Imphal: A cache of relics believed to date back to World War II was unearthed in Manipur’s Imphal West district on Tuesday morning, sparking interest among local historians and officials. The discovery was made during excavation work for a construction project in Langthabal, about four feet below the surface.
Among the items recovered were rusted empty ammunition casings, water bottles, a hand grenade, spades, tin cans, and other military supplies.
Officials believe the artefacts were remnants left behind by Allied forces who fought in the region during the Battle of Imphal in 1944.
The site lies close to Canchipur hills, which historically served as a key Allied camp during the fierce battle.
The Japanese Imperial Army had launched a major offensive in the region but was unable to dislodge Allied troops entrenched in the Imphal Valley.
The Battle of Imphal, fought in tandem with the Battle of Kohima, is regarded as one of the turning points of World War II in Southeast Asia.
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It not only marked the halt of the Japanese advance into British-held India but also inflicted heavy losses on both sides.
Historical records show that more than 54,000 Japanese soldiers were killed or wounded, while Allied casualties exceeded 12,000.
Officials are expected to coordinate with military historians and archaeologists to examine and preserve the newly discovered items, which offer a fresh glimpse into one of the most significant wartime confrontations on Indian soil.
