Families displaced by the ongoing conflict in Manipur have appealed to the State Government to prioritise resettlement efforts over preparations for the Manipur Sangai Festival, which is reportedly slated to return next month.
At a media briefing held at the Manipur Press Club, representatives from multiple relief camps voiced frustration over the prolonged delay in implementing the government’s proposed phase-wise resettlement programme. They said many families continue to live in makeshift shelters with uncertain futures while the administration diverts attention to festival arrangements.
One spokesperson remarked that it would be inappropriate to celebrate a grand tourism event when thousands remain uprooted. “Our return home and long-term rehabilitation should come first,” the speaker said, urging authorities to act with urgency and empathy.
The Sangai Festival, promoted as Manipur’s signature cultural showcase, is expected to resume this year after a two-year disruption caused by the persistent unrest. Displaced communities, however, insist that restoring stability and ensuring safe resettlement must be treated as the government’s primary responsibility before hosting large public events.
