A ruined structure at Jaiñtiapur in Sylhet
A ruined structure at Jaiñtiapur in Sylhet of Bangladesh

Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma said his government would urge the Bangladesh government through Centre to give more funds for maintenance of the historical monuments at the ruined Jaiñtiapur and ensure that they are restored and remained intact.

Jaiñtiapur, an erstwhile capital of Jaiñtia king, was captured by the British in Sylhet of Bangladesh.

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The kingdom was finally annexed on March 15, 1835 by the British and the king handed over his property in Sylhet along with a monthly salary of Rs 500.

According to folk tales, Jaiñtiapur remained as an independent kingdom under the Khasi Hills till 1824.

The name of the kingdom was derived via the Pnar people in Jaiñtia Hills of Meghalaya.

“It was a great moment for us as we got to visit Jaiñtiapur and see the place where the king used to meet the public,” Sangma said.

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He said that the place should be preserved and would urge the Bangladesh government through the Central Government to provide more funds to maintain and restore the historical structures and monuments.

The chief minister is leading a delegation Bangladesh for four days from November 5 to 8.

The delegation first reached Sylhet district of Bangladesh on Tuesday and visited some of the ruined places and monuments at Jaiñtiapur.