Manipur: Activist Gives 5-Day Deadline Over Alleged IDP Rice Diversion in Churachandpur
A serious controversy has emerged in Churachandpur district, where a social activist has accused authorities of diverting essential food supplies meant for internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Allegations Raised by Activist
Social activist and advocate Seilienmang Haokip addressed the media at the KIC complex and made strong allegations regarding large-scale irregularities in the distribution of government food supplies.
He claimed that:
• Rice allocated under the Open Market Sale Scheme – Domestic for IDPs is being illegally diverted and sold in black markets, particularly in Imphal.
• Food grains under the National Food Security Act, meant for economically weaker sections, are also being misappropriated.
According to Haokip, nearly 2,000 quintals of rice per month, intended for displaced populations, are allegedly being siphoned off instead of reaching beneficiaries.
Concerns Over DBT Implementation
Haokip also raised concerns about the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme, introduced on November 1, 2025, which provides ₹84 per person per day to IDPs in place of physical food distribution.
He alleged that:
• Since the implementation of DBT, actual food supply to camps has stopped or reduced significantly.
• Many displaced families are struggling as cash assistance is insufficient and irregular.
Discrepancy in Beneficiary Data
Citing official records from the Tuibong Sub-Divisional Office, Haokip highlighted a major mismatch:
• Total IDPs in camps: 6,504 (across 38 camps)
• Receiving DBT benefits: Only 4,295 individuals
This gap of over 2,000 people has raised serious concerns about exclusion and mismanagement in relief distribution.
Allegations Against Officials
The activist further alleged that officials from the Consumer Affairs Food & Public Distribution Department (CAF&PD), along with transport contractors, are:
• Diverting rice and essential commodities
• Engaging in collusion for illegal sale
• Worsening the already fragile humanitarian situation in the district
Five-Day Deadline Issued
Haokip has issued a five-day ultimatum to the state government, demanding:
• A detailed and transparent report on rice allocation and distribution
• Clarification on DBT beneficiary discrepancies
• Immediate corrective measures to ensure fair distribution of relief materials
Warning of Protests
He warned that failure to respond within the deadline could lead to:
• Public protests and demonstrations
• Bandhs (shutdowns)
• Closure of government offices in coordination with civil society organisations (CSOs)
Humanitarian Implications
The issue is particularly sensitive as it concerns internally displaced persons, many of whom have already suffered due to ongoing ethnic unrest in Manipur.
Any disruption or diversion in food supply:
• Directly impacts basic survival needs
• Increases hardship in relief camps
• Undermines trust in government relief mechanisms
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The allegations have intensified scrutiny over relief distribution systems in Manipur, and all eyes are now on the government’s response within the stipulated deadline.
