As we celebrate India’s 74^th Independence Day, the Battle of Moirang continues to be a forgotten chapter in the history of India. This is the story of one of the fiercest battles against the British by the Azad Hind Fauj.

Azad Hind Fauj or Netaji’s Indian National Army played a crucial role in the Indian Independence struggle but remains buried in the Indian History. Shri Mohan Singh Founded the Azad Hind Fauj, which comprised of the Prisoners of War in Singapore.

With the charisma and ambition of Netaji, the Azad Hind Fauj was revived and was given the name of the Indian National Army. The Fauj spread its message of patriotism and independence from the British Raj through Azad Hind Radio and also established the Rani of Jhansi Regiment to empower women soldiers.

On the morning of 14^th April 1944, Colonel Shaukat Ali Khan of the Azad Hind Fauj, marched into the town of Moirang, in Bishenpur district in Manipur and hoisted the national flag of India. As admitted by the British themselves, it was one of the fiercest battles ever fought. The battle was the first victory of the Azad Hind Fauj against the British.

The Azad Hind Fauj was hosted by Shri Mairembang Koireng Singh, who went on to become the first Chief Minister of Manipur. After capturing Moirang, a provisional government was put in place on 21^st October 1943 with Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose appointed as Head of the state and also served as the first Prime Minister of the Government and served as Minister of War and Foreign Affairs. Moirang remained under the Azad Hind Government for four months. During the period, the Government also issued currency and stamps.

Every year, 14^th April is celebrated as ‘Victory Day’ or ‘Moirang Day’ by the people of Moirang. Azad Hind Fauj’s great contribution to the Indian Independence struggle must not be forgotten.