Tensions Rise as Displaced Residents Demand Return Home

Internally displaced people clashed with security forces near Imphal East district while attempting to return home. They argue that with the annual Sangai festival ongoing, normalcy is back, and they should leave relief camps. Security used tear gas to disperse protesters demanding to resume their livelihoods.

Tensions escalated in Imphal East district on Monday as hundreds of internally displaced people (IDPs) confronted security forces. The IDPs, staying in relief camps due to previous ethnic violence, attempted to return to their homes but were stopped by security personnel at Pukhao and near Dolaithabi Dam.

The desperate residents, from Ekou, Dolaithabi, and Yengkhuman, were dispersed with tear gas as they claimed that the annual Sangai festival signified a return to normalcy in the state, justifying their return. The IDPs argued their livelihoods were severely affected, with many being farmers unable to work.

The confrontations occurred as the IDPs challenged the government's stance on their safety. S Kumarjit Meitei, one of the protesters, urged authorities to address militant threats instead of keeping them in camps. Security forces remain vigilant in the sensitive region following the ethnic violence earlier in 2023.

(With inputs from agencies.)