MCM urges Govt to prioritise resettlement of IDPs before organising Sangai Festival
Source: The Sangai Express

Tengnoupal, October 09 2026: The Meetei Council Moreh (MCM) has urged the State Government to refrain from organising the Manipur Sangai Festival 2026 until the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are resettled and their plights are adequately addressed.

In a statement, the Publicity & Information Secretary (MCM) has highlighted the importance of prioritising the resettlement of IDPs who have been severely affected by the infamous crisis which erupted in May, 2023 and are subsequently leading a miserable life in the relief camps before holding the State festival.

Stating that holding such a major festival amid the ongoing crisis in Manipur is inappropriate, MCM maintained that it might lead to unwanted outcomes and may portray the State in a negative light rather than attracting tourists or generating income.

Highlighting that Manipur is plagued by a number of key issues such as recurring violence among the communities, killings, the plights of IDPs, bandhs, blockades and so on, the committee appealed to the Government to focus on resolving these issues first rather than proceeding with the festival.

The Meetei Council Moreh urged the Government to expedite the resettlement of IDPs taking refuge in various relief camps across the State at their respective native places by the end of 2026 by providing adequate security forces.

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