The internally displaced persons (IDPs) and their families, whose lives have been completely devastated and uprooted by ethnic strife, have called the government’s attention to addressing their plight and demanded their safe and dignified return to their original homes.
A peaceful protest was also held in Bishnupur District by women IDPs currently dwelling in shelters in Utlou of the same district. Meanwhile, IDPs from Churachandpur (Churachandpur Meitei United Committee or CMUC) also met the Governor of Manipur today to reiterate their frustration over their worsening conditions, as they have been forced to live in temporary shelters.
Demanding their safe return home, they also highlighted the lack of educational assistance for children, the need for IDP-led management of relief camps, and the persistent challenges in accessing vital documents such as birth and domicile certificates. The IDPs also demanded that the government provide employment opportunities tailored to their skill sets and construct temporary shelters at Phougakchao Ikhai in Bishnupur District as an interim measure until permanent rehabilitation becomes possible.
Protestors in Utlou expressed deep frustration over the prolonged displacement, lack of livelihood, and growing psychological distress faced by the community. Among them was RK Babita, an IDP from Torbung Bangla, who shared the painful realities of living away from home. “We are staying in someone else’s land. Before the violence, we earned well and could provide for our children. Now, we can’t even afford proper education for them. Without education, what future can they have? It’s not just our children—it’s our entire society that will suffer,” she said.
