Bishnupur, February 1, 2026: Those who are non-architects should not be referred to or recognised as architects. Concerned departments should recognise only qualified and registered architects as architects. If non-architects are allowed to work as architects and participate in building construction works, it may lead to serious safety risks and cause loss of lives, stated Manipur Architect Forum President Gitkumar Nepram.
He was speaking as the President at a Brainstorming Session on the Model Manipur Unified Building Bye-Laws, 2024, organised by the Manipur Architect Forum at Omba Nurathei Garden, Moirang, in Bishnupur district on Saturday.
The programme featured technical deliberations by Ar. N. Benju Singh, Chief Town Planner, Manipur, along with key inputs from Gitkumar Nepram, TPr Maisnam Manas Singh, Associate Town Planner, and Ar. Yumnam Narmada Devi, Retired Chief Town Planner.
While addressing the session, Forum President Gitkumar Nepram stated that in India, the authority to regulate the profession of architecture is governed by the Architects Act, 1972, enacted by the Government of India, under which the Council of Architecture (COA) was established. As per the Act, only those registered with the Council of Architecture are legally entitled to use the title “Architect.” Any individual who uses the title “Architect” without proper registration and practises in violation of the Act is liable to face legal action, including penalties and imprisonment. He urged all eligible professionals to register themselves with the Council of Architecture to ensure professional accountability and promote a safe and sustainable built environment.
Delivering the technical perspective, Chief Town Planner Ar. N. Benju Singh highlighted that architects play a crucial role in proper planning before any building construction begins. Constructing buildings without approved permissions can lead to unsafe living conditions. He emphasised the need for the public to consult appropriate departments before undertaking construction works. Unscientific construction practices pose serious risks, and therefore adherence to building bye-laws, guidelines, and planning regulations issued by the Town Planning Department, Manipur, is essential for orderly development.
During the programme, awareness was also created among the public regarding the Kumbi Municipal Building Bye-Laws, 2025, Kwakta Municipal Building Bye-Laws, 2025, and Moirang Municipal Council Bye-Laws, 2025. Ar. N. Benju Singh also conducted a detailed technical session as the Resource Person on the Model Manipur Unified Building Bye-Laws, 2024.
The programme was attended by Moirang Municipal Council Chief Executive Officer M. Inaobi Singh, who delivered a special address. The vote of thanks was proposed by Manipur Architect Forum Vice President Ar. Yumnam Sanjib Singh.
Members of the Manipur Architect Forum, practising architects from various districts, and officials from the Town Planning Department actively participated in the programme.
