Despite anger of displaced families, Sangai Festival preparations push ahead under tight security

Preparations for the Sangai Festival 2025 continue in full swing at Hatta Kangjeibung, even as resentment grows among thousands of internally displaced people (IDPs) who have been living in relief camps for more than two and a half years. 

The festival, scheduled from November 21 to 30, has become a flashpoint, with displaced communities questioning the government’s priorities under President’s Rule.

Mass sit-in protests were held across several relief camps in the valley districts, while tensions escalated around the main venue as demonstrators denounced the decision to hold the event amid an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Many IDPs voiced frustration, asking whether “the value of the Sangai deer is being placed above the lives of displaced people.”

Also Read: “Free movement first”: Displaced families oppose Sangai Festival amid crisis

Despite these concerns, the festival grounds at Hatta Kangjeibung remain abuzz with activity. Workers are setting up the venue under heavy security, which now blankets the entire area. Decorations are underway, and stalls are being readied across the field.

This year, the festival features a total of 600 stalls: 159 food stalls, 261 commercial stalls, and 15 sponsor stalls. Authorities had also reserved stalls for IDPs, but none of the displaced families opted to take them, citing their ongoing struggle for survival and lack of basic necessities.

Though acknowledging they cannot force the government to cancel the festival, many displaced people have appealed to the public to reconsider supporting it. “People should think about the plight of IDPs before celebrating,” one protester said.

As countdown to November 21 begins, the contrast between the vibrant festival preparations and the grim reality faced by displaced communities continues to fuel anger and debate over governance and compassion in Manipur.