Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla inaugurated the Sangai festival, the annual tourism festival of the state on Friday amid protests by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and civil bodies.
Tension erupted between security forces and IDPs, displaced by the ethnic violence in the state, who were protesting against the government’s decision to organise the festival after a two-year hiatus.
The IDPs, who fled Churachandpur district in 2023 and have been staying in relief camps in Bishnupur district, demanded that they be allowed to return to their homes, an official quoting an IDP said. They were, however, stopped by security forces near Phougakchao Ikhai in Bishnupur, a few kilometres from Churachandpur. Security forces put up barricades and barbed wires to prevent any further movement of the IDPs. They also had to resort to tear gas to disperse the protesters. A number of IDPs and security personnel were reportedly injured in the clashes.
Governor Bhalla, however, said that the festival is not just a showcase but “a powerful driver of economic revival and social healing.”
“After the challenges of recent years, the festival not only brings tourism to the doorsteps of the state, but also acts as a growth strategy, renewing livelihood opportunities to our artisans, youth and local communities,” he added.
The Governor said that the suffering of IDPs is a matter of deep concern and the government has rolled out structured policies for financial assistance.
