What Are the Demands of Violence-Hit People Rallying in Imphal?
Synopsis
In Imphal, hundreds of Internally Displaced People (IDPs) affected by recent violence have rallied, seeking urgent action from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla for their resettlement. The protest reflects ongoing struggles for safety and return to homes after ethnic tensions broke out in May 2023, highlighting the plight of thousands still in relief camps.
Key Takeaways
Protest by IDPs in Imphal highlights ongoing struggles for resettlement.
Government's Rs 573-crore package aims to facilitate resettlement.
Over 70,000 individuals displaced due to ethnic violence since May 2023.
COCOMI's involvement underscores community solidarity in addressing issues.
Urgent attention required for the safety and return of displaced families.
Imphal, Jan 12 (NationPress) A large gathering of Internally Displaced People (IDPs) affected by violence held a demonstration in Imphal on Monday, urging Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to respond positively regarding their resettlement.
The protest, organized with the support of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), a primary organization of the Meitei community, aimed to secure the safe return of displaced families to their homes with proper security measures in place.
The march commenced from Kwakeithel Takhellambam Leikai and proceeded towards Lok Bhavan.
However, law enforcement, including police and central security forces like the Rapid Action Force (RAF), halted the protest at Keishampat junction, nearly 200 meters away from the Governor's residence.
A delegation led by COCOMI Convenor Khuraijam Athouba later engaged in discussions with Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel and subsequently met with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, prompting the protestors to disperse.
An official from Lok Bhavan reported that the COCOMI-IDPs delegation conveyed their concerns regarding the situation of displaced individuals and highlighted several pressing issues.
“The talks also covered topics related to arrangements in areas neighboring the Valley and Hill regions,” the official stated.
The Governor acknowledged the delegation's concerns and indicated that measures concerning resettlement and rehabilitation are already in progress.
“Governor Bhalla emphasized that efforts are being made to ensure the safe and gradual return of IDPs,” added the Lok Bhavan official.
Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel and Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N. Ashok Kumar were also present during the discussions.
One protestor mentioned that numerous memoranda advocating for the resettlement of IDPs to their original locations have been submitted to various authorities, including the Governor, yet no affirmative response has been received.
“How can we stay silent after living in relief camps since the ethnic violence erupted on May 3, 2023?” questioned a leader from the IDP community.
Previously, on December 30 of the last year, Chief Secretary Goel reported that approximately 10,000 individuals displaced due to ethnic violence since May 2023 have been resettled.
“The government has initiated a series of actions for the phased resettlement of the IDPs under the Rs 573-crore Resettlement and Rehabilitation Package that was announced earlier,” Goel stated.
The state government has established over 300 relief camps throughout the Imphal Valley and hilly regions to accommodate over 59,000 men, women, and children displaced since the onset of ethnic violence in May 2023.
In total, more than 260 individuals have lost their lives, over 1,500 have been injured, and more than 70,000 have been displaced following the outbreak of ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities on May 3, 2023, which was triggered by a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ in the hill districts to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status.
Since February 13, Manipur has been under President’s Rule, following the resignation of N. Biren Singh as Chief Minister.
Point of View
The rally by Internally Displaced People in Imphal signifies a critical juncture in addressing the humanitarian crisis stemming from the recent ethnic violence. Their demands for resettlement highlight the urgent need for government intervention and support. As the nation watches, it's essential that these voices are heard and that effective measures are implemented to ensure the safety and security of all communities involved.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the displacement of people in Manipur?
The displacement was triggered by ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
How many people are currently displaced in Manipur?
More than 70,000 individuals have been displaced due to the ethnic violence.
What is the government's plan for resettlement?
The government has announced a Rs 573-crore Resettlement and Rehabilitation Package to facilitate the phased resettlement of IDPs.
Have any IDPs been resettled so far?
Yes, approximately 10,000 IDPs have been resettled since the violence began.
What is COCOMI's role in the protests?
COCOMI, a leading organization of the Meitei community, has been instrumental in organizing the protests and advocating for the rights of IDPs.
