Displaced Families Break Down After Being Stopped from Returning Home; Question Govt’s Celebration of Sangai Festival
Imphal, November —
Heart-wrenching scenes unfolded on Monday as Meitei internally displaced persons (IDPs) broke down in tears after being stopped by security forces while attempting to return to their homes in Churachandpur. The displaced families, many of whom have been living in relief camps for over a year, expressed deep frustration and emotional distress over being denied the opportunity to resettle in their original localities.
Security personnel intervened and halted their movement, citing safety concerns and the volatile ground situation in certain areas. However, the IDPs questioned the government’s priorities, pointing to the ongoing Sangai Festival, which the State has promoted as a symbol of stability and normalcy.
“If the government says Manipur is normal and can celebrate festivals, why can’t we go back to our own houses?” one IDP asked, highlighting the emotional pain and sense of injustice felt among the displaced families.
Many IDPs said the contrast between grand celebrations and their continued suffering felt deeply unfair, arguing that rehabilitation and restoration of security should come before any festivities. Several burst into tears as they pleaded with authorities to allow them to return to their homeland.
As of now, officials have not issued any formal statement regarding the attempted return or the concerns raised by the displaced families.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the unresolved plight of thousands of displaced people who remain uncertain about when they can finally rebuild their lives in their ancestral homes.
