Displaced families protest near Manipur Raj Bhavan, demand right to return home

In a powerful demonstration of frustration and longing for normalcy, hundreds of displaced people in Manipur staged a protest near the Raj Bhavan in Imphal on Sunday, demanding permission to return to their homes. These families have been living in relief camps for more than a year and a half following the ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023 and their patience appears to be running out.

The protesters came from various districts including Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Imphal West, and Imphal East. They are among thousands who were forced to leave their homes after clashes broke out between Imphal valley-based Meiteis and hill-based Kukis. Over 260 people have been killed since the violence began, and many others remain displaced.

During the demonstration, protestors held placards with messages such as “Displaced lives matter”, “Rights first, tourism later” and “Boycott Sangai festival”. Their main demand was simple if the government claims that normalcy has returned by organising the Sangai tourism festival, then the displaced should be allowed to return to their homes.

Security forces stopped the demonstrators near Kangla Gate, around 200 metres from the Raj Bhavan. Prevented from marching further, they diverted their rally towards the Uripok area in Imphal West. Police closely monitored the situation to prevent any escalation.

Speaking to reporters, Irom Abung Meitei, a displaced resident from Churachandpur, said the protest was driven by deep frustration. According to him, the government is showcasing normalcy through the Sangai festival while ignoring the suffering of displaced families. He added that they might not return to relief camps going forward and would intensify protests in the coming days.

This was not the first time internally displaced persons (IDPs) clashed with security forces. Since the Sangai Festival began on November 21, multiple confrontations have occurred as the displaced people insist they should be allowed back home if peace has truly been restored.

The protest highlights a critical question: can celebrations and tourism be prioritised when thousands still do not have a home to return to? Until that answer is addressed by authorities, the displaced families say their demonstrations will continue.