Tensions flared in Manipur&rsquo;s Imphal East district on Monday when hundreds of Internally Displaced People (IDPs) attempted to return to their native villages, leading to clashes with security forces at Pukhao and near the Dolaithabi Dam. Three IDPs and two police personnel were injured as authorities used lathis and tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Residents from Ekou, Dolaithabi and Yengkhuman, still living in relief camps since ethnic violence forced them to flee in May 2023, tried to move back to their homes, believing the situation had normalised due to the Sangai Tourism Festival being held from November 21 to 30. Security forces, however, blocked their movement citing safety concerns.
Representatives of the displaced families said many of them are farmers whose livelihoods have been shattered for over a year. They questioned how long people are expected to remain in relief camps without a clear rehabilitation timeline.
These foothill villages bordering Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi district were among the worst hit during the 2023 unrest. Ahead of the Sangai Festival, several IDP groups and civil society organisations, including COCOMI, had already called for protests and a festival boycott, arguing that the event benefits vested interests instead of addressing the suffering of displaced communities.
The state government has urged cooperation, emphasising that the festival is part of a broader push for economic revival, tourism growth and social harmony. Authorities said relief and rehabilitation remain priorities, with the state spending approximately Rs 18 crore per month on IDP support. Funds from the central government&rsquo;s Special Relief Package are earmarked for rebuilding homes and public infrastructure.
More than 59,000 people remain in over 300 relief camps across Manipur. The ethnic violence that began in May 2023 has claimed over 260 lives and displaced more than 70,000 people. The state is currently under President&rsquo;s Rule.

Manipur clashes as IDPs attempt return home

Five injured as displaced families clash with security forces while returning to village

Manipur clashes as IDPs attempt return home

Five injured as displaced families clash with security forces while returning to village

November 24, 2025 | 20:00 IST