The Manipur Sangai Festival once again became the centre of tension as a clash broke out between Manipur Police, Internally Displaced Persons, and members associated with COCOMI. The confrontation, linked to ongoing calls to boycott the Manipur Sangai Festival, stirred concern across the state. However, police officials later announced that the overall law-and-order situation had returned to normal, easing immediate worries among residents.
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Clash Erupts Over Sangai Festival Boycott
The clash unfolded when a group of IDPs and supporters of COCOMI moved to enforce their boycott of the Manipur Sangai Festival. They argued that the celebration was inappropriate when thousands of displaced people continued to live in relief camps. As they attempted to march towards a designated protest point, security forces tried to halt their movement, leading to a tense face-off.
Police stated that the protesters ignored repeated requests to disperse. This resulted in a brief scuffle, during which security personnel used minimal force to control the situation. Protesters insisted their march was peaceful and meant to highlight the ongoing humanitarian concerns linked to the ethnic conflict. The disagreement escalated quickly, drawing attention from nearby communities already sensitive to the festival’s timing and purpose.
The Manipur Sangai Festival has long carried cultural importance, yet it remains a point of contention this year. Many groups believe the state should first focus on rehabilitation before celebrating. Their frustration was visible during the confrontation, as many held placards demanding justice and the safe return of displaced families. Although the clash did not last long, it amplified the ongoing divide within the state.
Police Declare Situation Under Control
Following the incident, Manipur Police confirmed that the law-and-order situation had stabilised. Officials said the force acted with restraint and ensured that the confrontation did not spread to other parts of Imphal. According to police, additional deployment in sensitive pockets helped prevent escalation. They emphasised that normal movement resumed shortly after the clash.
Authorities also communicated that the Manipur Sangai Festival would continue as scheduled. They stressed that security arrangements were strengthened to avoid further disruptions. The government believes the festival will support local businesses and offer a sense of cultural continuity. Yet, statements from several groups suggested deep dissatisfaction with that decision.
Police urged the public not to panic and assured residents that peace had been restored. They added that both sides were asked to maintain calm in the coming days. Their appeal aimed to prevent misinformation from adding fuel to public sentiment, which has already been fragile in recent months.
Continuing Tension Around the Sangai Festival
Despite the return to normalcy, tension surrounding the Manipur Sangai Festival continues. Many displaced families feel their voices have not been heard. Their demand for proper rehabilitation and a return to their homes remains unresolved. As a result, protests related to the festival’s boycott have gained traction in several districts.
COCOMI, which played a major role in the call for the boycott, reiterated that celebrating the festival at this time undermines the suffering of affected communities. They argued that the focus should be on rebuilding trust and restoring stability. Their involvement in the clash showed the extent to which the festival has become a symbol of wider frustration.
Meanwhile, festival organisers maintained that the event highlights Manipur’s rich culture and supports local artisans. They explained that cancelling or delaying the festival could hurt livelihoods tied to tourism and seasonal markets. Even so, the mood across the state remains mixed. While some support the cultural celebration, others believe the timing is insensitive.
The contrast between festive preparations and the pain felt by displaced families continues to shape public discussion. This emotional divide explains why even a small confrontation can grow into a larger concern. Residents hope that authorities will address these deeper issues rather than focusing only on immediate clashes.
The recent clash over the boycott of the Manipur Sangai Festival underlined the ongoing tension in the state. While Manipur Police have declared the situation normal, the concerns raised by the IDPs and COCOMI remain significant. Their protest reflects broader issues linked to displacement, rehabilitation, and the search for sustainable peace.
The festival continues amid tight security, yet the atmosphere reminds everyone that healing is still a long process. As Manipur moves forward, true stability will depend on how effectively the government addresses the grievances of affected communities. The return to normalcy after the clash offers temporary relief, but lasting peace will require deeper engagement with those still waiting for solutions.
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