What Happened at the Manipur Sangai Festival?
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Synopsis
Amidst rising tensions in Manipur, protests erupted against the upcoming Sangai Tourism Festival, resulting in injuries and detentions. Demonstrators demand urgent government action to address the ongoing ethnic conflict before celebrating the festival. This situation highlights the delicate balance between cultural events and community needs in a region marred by violence.
Key Takeaways
- The Sangai Festival is facing protests due to ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur.
- Security forces used tear gas and lathi-charge to manage the protests.
- Internally displaced persons are demanding government action before the festival.
- Economic development and community healing are priorities for the Manipur government.
- The festival aims to promote tourism and cultural unity amid challenges.
Imphal, Nov 20 (NationPress) A clash between security forces and demonstrators in Manipur resulted in at least three injuries and the detention of two individuals on Thursday. A large group of protesters attempted to breach the main venue of the annual Sangai Tourism Festival, which is set to commence on Friday, as reported by officials.
A police spokesperson mentioned that security personnel employed lathi-charge and utilized tear gas shells to disperse the crowd. The protesters demanded that the state government resolve the ongoing conflict and rehabilitate those displaced from their homes due to the ethnic clashes that erupted in May 2023.
The Sangai Festival has not been held for the past two years due to the ethnic strife between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
On November 18, the Manipur government urged all citizens, especially those affected by the ethnic violence, to cooperate and support the successful execution of the Sangai Tourism Festival.
Manipur's Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel emphasized that the festival, running from November 21 to 30, signifies a collective resolve to progress together, urging full participation from the community.
On Thursday, demonstrators, led by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), gathered near the festival venue to voice their opposition. Ignoring requests from security, a large number of COCOMI activists attempted to advance toward the venue. Outnumbered security personnel responded with batons and tear gas.
A scuffle ensued near Maharaja Bodhchandra College as protesters tried to breach security barricades, leading to the injuries of three COCOMI activists.
In addition, three protesters were detained. Meanwhile, numerous internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by ethnic violence organized sit-in demonstrations in relief camps against the festival.
A 24-hour shutdown, called by a banned militant group opposing the festival, partially disrupted daily life in the Imphal valley on Wednesday.
Chief Secretary Goel reiterated the government's commitment to economic recovery, tourism promotion, youth empowerment, and community harmony as essential for Manipur's sustainable growth. The Sangai Festival is intended to serve as a catalyst for hope, opportunity, economic development, and unity. He acknowledged the significant hardships faced by the citizens, particularly the IDPs.
Goel stated that addressing the humanitarian crisis is the government's top priority, with substantial measures being taken for relief and long-term rehabilitation. Currently, ₹18 crore is allocated monthly for monetary assistance to IDPs and the management of relief camps.
According to Goel, ₹523 crore has been released under the Special Relief Package by the Government of India, including ₹180 crore for restoring homes of displaced families and ₹250 crore for public infrastructure such as health centers, community halls, and schools in areas designated for IDP resettlement.
While the rehabilitation of IDPs remains a priority, the Sangai Festival is also crucial for economic stimulation and creating market linkages for local artisans, entrepreneurs, and farmers, thereby boosting trade and investment. The government is simultaneously advancing significant development projects to enhance job creation and improve living conditions.
Point of View
It is evident that the situation in Manipur requires urgent attention. The protests against the Sangai Festival underscore the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by many internally displaced individuals. While cultural celebrations are vital for community cohesion, they must not overshadow the pressing needs of those affected by violence. The government's commitment to both economic development and humanitarian relief will be crucial in navigating this complex landscape.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the protests during the Sangai Festival?
The protests were sparked by demands from demonstrators for the government to address the ongoing ethnic conflict and rehabilitate internally displaced persons before proceeding with the Sangai Festival.
How did the security forces respond to the protesters?
Security forces employed lathi-charge and tear gas to disperse the crowd of protesters attempting to storm the festival venue.
What is the significance of the Sangai Festival?
The Sangai Festival represents an important cultural event aimed at promoting tourism and community unity, but it has become a focal point for expressing grievances related to ethnic violence.
How has the government responded to the ethnic violence in Manipur?
The Manipur government has expressed commitment to humanitarian relief and rehabilitation efforts for internally displaced persons, alongside promoting economic recovery through events like the Sangai Festival.
What are the implications of the shutdown called by the militant group?
The shutdown has partially disrupted daily life in the Imphal valley, reflecting the ongoing tensions and opposition to the Sangai Festival among certain groups.
