Manipur: Kuki Organisations Urge Residents to Observe Crackers-Free Diwali Over Safety Concerns
Two Kuki community organisations have jointly appealed to residents across several districts of Manipur to celebrate Diwali without bursting firecrackers on November 9, citing security, health and safety concerns.
The appeal was made by the Kuki Youth Organization (KYO), Leimakhong Block, and the United Kuki Youth Council (UKYC), Churachandpur. The organisations clarified that the request was not intended to discourage festival celebrations but to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable residents.
They cautioned that loud firecracker explosions could be mistaken for gunshots or bomb blasts, creating panic among people in areas still affected by recent violence and displacement.
The organisations also expressed concern over the psychological impact of firecracker sounds on children, elderly people and others who continue to experience trauma from past incidents. They said sudden loud noises could trigger fear, anxiety and sleeplessness among affected residents.
Health and Fire Safety Concerns
The UKYC highlighted the health risks associated with firecracker smoke, stating that toxic emissions could worsen air pollution and affect pregnant women, infants, elderly people and those with existing health conditions.
It further expressed concern over respiratory problems in Churachandpur town, where limited emergency medical facilities could make health emergencies more difficult to manage. Exposure to firecracker pollution could potentially lead to asthma attacks, heart-related complications and eye irritation.
The organisations also warned about accidental fire hazards in densely populated residential areas, where many houses are constructed using inflammable materials such as timber and tin. They noted that even a small spark could lead to a serious fire, particularly in areas with limited firefighting facilities.
Additionally, they pointed out that loud noises and smoke could affect domestic animals, livestock and nearby residential areas, schools and churches.
UKYC Appeals for Ban on Firecracker Sales
The United Kuki Youth Council called for a complete ban on the sale of firecrackers and urged shopkeepers to stop selling such products.
It also appealed to parents to explain the importance of a cracker-free celebration to their children and encouraged local youth to promote safer alternatives through traditional lamps and other light-based celebrations.
The council further stated that additional restrictions might be required if the security situation worsened, while urging residents to cooperate voluntarily in maintaining public safety.
Despite the appeal, both organisations extended their Diwali greetings and encouraged people to celebrate the festival through traditional lamps, prayers, sweets and family gatherings.
They emphasised that the festival should be marked by peace, unity and consideration for others rather than loud noises and disturbances.
