What Happened in Manipur? Two Cops Injured Amid Clash with Displaced Individuals
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a troubling incident in Manipur, clashes erupted between Internally Displaced People and security forces, leading to injuries on both sides. As the Sangai Tourism Festival unfolds, the displaced individuals are demanding their right to return home, raising questions about the government's commitment to their rehabilitation. What does this mean for the future of these communities?
Key Takeaways
- Clashes occurred between IDPs and security forces in Manipur.
- Injuries reported on both sides during the confrontation.
- Displaced individuals are demanding their right to return home.
- The Sangai Tourism Festival is ongoing amid the crisis.
- The government is focusing on rehabilitation and support for IDPs.
Imphal, Nov 24 (NationPress) On Monday, at least three Internally Displaced People (IDPs) and two police officers sustained injuries during a confrontation between hundreds of IDPs residing in relief camps and security forces in Pukhao and near the Dolaithabi Dam, located in the Imphal East district of Manipur. This incident occurred as the displaced individuals attempted to return to their home villages, according to official reports.
A police representative indicated that the conflict erupted when men and women from the localities of Ekou, Dolaithabi, and Yengkhuman, who are currently living in relief camps, tried to advance towards their original homes but were prevented by the security personnel.
In response, the security forces resorted to lathi-charge and deployed tear gas shells to disperse the gathering, resulting in injuries to three IDPs and two policemen.
An IDP spokesperson highlighted that given the ongoing Sangai Tourism Festival from November 21 to 30, they believe normalcy has returned to their regions, warranting their return to their homes instead of remaining in relief camps.
He expressed concerns regarding the prolonged confinement of people in relief camps, emphasizing the plight of many farmers whose livelihoods have been disrupted since they fled their villages in May 2023 due to the onset of ethnic violence.
“How long will people remain confined in relief camps? The government is still not clearly telling us when we will be rehabilitated in our original villages,” he remarked.
Ekou, Dolaithabi, and Yengkhuman are foothill villages in the Imphal East district that border the Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi district, and they were significantly affected during the ethnic violence in May 2023.
Prior to the 10-day Sangai Tourism Festival, which was inaugurated at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal on November 21, several groups of IDPs and various Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), including the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), called for a cease-work strike and urged the public to boycott the festival and organize protests.
COCOMI convenor Khuraijam Athouba previously stated that the festival serves not the people but the interests of a few individuals looking to gain financially from its organization.
The government of Manipur has appealed to all residents, particularly IDPs and involved parties, to offer their complete cooperation to ensure the success of the Sangai Festival.
In a public appeal, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel stated that the festival represents a collective commitment to progress and that active support and participation will aid the state in regaining its momentum.
He emphasized that economic recovery, tourism promotion, youth empowerment, and community harmony are crucial for restoring Manipur to a sustainable growth trajectory.
As per the Chief Secretary, the government acknowledges the challenges faced by the displaced individuals, and their relief and rehabilitation remain a top priority.
Currently, the state allocates approximately Rs 18 crore monthly for financial aid to IDPs and for managing relief camps throughout Manipur.
From the Rs 523-crore Special Relief Package provided by the central government, Rs 180 crore is designated for housing restoration assistance for displaced families, while Rs 250 crore is earmarked for the reconstruction of public infrastructure such as health facilities, community halls, water supply systems, and schools in resettlement zones.
He also noted that the Sangai Festival is vital for accelerating economic activities and creating market connections for local artisans, craftsmen, farmers, and entrepreneurs, thereby enhancing trade and investment while the government simultaneously pursues significant development projects to create jobs and improve living conditions.
Currently, over 59,000 men, women, and children are residing in more than 300 relief camps throughout the Imphal valley and hill districts.
Since the ethnic turmoil between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities erupted on May 3, 2023, following a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ opposing the Meitei community’s bid for Scheduled Tribe status, over 260 individuals have lost their lives, nearly 1,500 have been injured, and more than 70,000 have been displaced.
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, just four days after the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
Point of View
The ongoing situation in Manipur highlights the urgent need for dialogue and resolution. The plight of the Internally Displaced People must be addressed with empathy and swift action. The government's approach to rehabilitation and support will be pivotal in restoring peace and stability in the region, ensuring that the rights and livelihoods of affected individuals are safeguarded.
NationPress
24/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the clash between IDPs and security forces?
The clash was triggered when Internally Displaced People attempted to return to their native villages but were stopped by security forces.
How many people were injured in the incident?
At least three Internally Displaced People and two police personnel were injured during the clashes.
What is the Sangai Tourism Festival?
The Sangai Tourism Festival is an annual event organized by the state government to promote tourism and cultural activities in Manipur.
How many people are currently in relief camps in Manipur?
More than 59,000 individuals are currently residing in over 300 relief camps across Manipur.
What support is the government providing to IDPs?
The government is providing monetary assistance and managing relief camps, with a monthly expenditure of approximately Rs 18 crore.
