IDPs appeal Government to defer Sangai Festival until resettlement
Source: The Sangai Express

Moirang, November 02 2025: Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Churachandpur Khuga Tampak, currently residing at the Mekola Gulap Hr Sec School Relief Camp, have appealed to the Government to suspend plans for the upcoming Sangai Festival and other festivities until all displaced families are safely resettled in their original homes.

The statement was made during a Ningol Chakkouba celebration held at the residence of Sorokhaibam Chinglenkhomba at Kodompokpi Lamkhai, jointly organised by nine clubs of Mekola in a show of solidarity with the displaced community.

The celebration, which began with a tree plantation ceremony themed "Ningolgidamak", was attended by Relief Camp Coordinator L Surchandra Singh; District Social Welfare Officer Bishnupur, Th Nikita; and Kodompokpi GP former pradhan, S Manglemjao, among others, as presidium members.

The gathering featured a shared meal and the presentation of gifts to Ningols from the relief camp, symbolising the enduring spirit and tradition of Chakkouba even amidst displacement.

Expressing her gratitude, M Maichon.an IDP, thanked the nine clubs of Mekola for their compassion and inclusion in the celebration, noting that after more than two and half years in the relief camp, the invitation served as a great emotional comfort.

She also questioned the Government's earlier assurance that the resettlement process would be completed by December, urging authorities to fulfil their commitments and withhold all festivities, including the Sangai Festival, until resettlement to their original places is complete.

Another displaced woman, Kh Sushila, voiced frustration over the Government's inaction, saying that instead of showing compassion, authorities were focusing on grand festivals while thousands of displaced persons continue to live in temporary shelters under dire conditions.

She appealed to the Government, to prioritise the plight of IDPs over celebration, until every affected family is safely returned home.

She also sought support and solidarity of the public, emphasizing that true celebration can only begin once every displaced family regains their home and dignity.

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