Manipur: Clashes erupt as displaced people protest Sangai Festival in Imphal East

Violent confrontations broke out between security forces and internally displaced persons at Khurai Lamlong in Imphal East on November 21, as protesters demonstrated against the staging of the Sangai Festival amid the state's ongoing humanitarian crisis.

 

The clash intensified when demonstrators attempted to march towards the festival venue, leading security personnel to deploy tear gas shells to disperse the advancing crowd. Three police officers sustained injuries during the melee, whilst two were detained by protesters.

 

One detained officer has been released, whilst protesters agreed to free the second on condition that security forces would not interfere with their continued road blockade. "We will continue the protest until and unless the government decides to withdraw from organising the festival," protesters stated.

 

The demonstration drew displaced families from multiple relief camps across Imphal East, including Sawombung and Sajiwa relief camps. Protesters have condemned the festival's timing, arguing that celebrating whilst thousands remain displaced represents profound insensitivity to their plight.

 

The Sangai Festival, Manipur's premier cultural event, is set to commence today and is scheduled to run through November 30. However, the state's displaced population views the festivities as disconnected from the harsh reality facing families who have lost their homes during the ethnic violence that has gripped the region.

 

The standoff at Khurai Lamlong remains unresolved, with protesters maintaining their blockade and vowing to continue demonstrations until authorities cancel the festival proceedings.