Harrowing experiences of fleeing haunt camp dwellers
Source: Chronicle News Service / Niranjan Oinam

Imphal, August 13 2023: Over 100 days have passed since the outbreak of violence, yet a viable solution remains elusive.

Displaced individuals, forced to abandon their homes with only the clothes on their backs, continue to seek shelter in relief camps set up across the state.

Although these camps provide safety from the violence, finding solace within them is still a distant goal.

The harrowing experiences of fleeing for safety continue to haunt the camp dwellers, as their daily lives vividly reflect the horrors they endured.

Nestled at Chingmeirong Mamang Leikai Upper Primary School, a relatively small relief camp accommodates 35 inhabitants.

Managed by local clubs, Shinglups, and Meira Paibi Lups under the guidance of Wangkhei MLA Thangjam Arunkumar, the camp receives government support.

Inmates participate in training on making incense sticks, candles, and dishwashing products, which are marketed under the brand 'Punshi Mayol'.

Several young women inmates have secured housekeeping jobs through Sangai Services, while young men engage in various menial tasks.

Of the 35 inmates, three hail from Torbung Bangla, three from Phougakchao Ikhai, and 29 from Churachandpur.

Among them, 14 are children, including three under five years of age, who have received immunizations under Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0.Urban Primary Health Centre, Mantripukhri conducts regular health check-ups with a team of two doctors and two nurses.

Unlike many other relief camps grappling with inadequate amenities, the Chingmeirong camp faces a distinct challenge despite its modest size.

Adult inmates struggle to have peaceful sleep at night due to vivid nightly recollections of their horrific experiences.

Some resort to sleeping pills to get rest, yet even these pills serve as reminders of their traumatic past.

Meanwhile, children in the camp also suffer from post-traumatic stress, experiencing panic at the sight of a red sky during evenings and are frightful of the sound of thunderstorms.

Some younger children even cry, claiming their homes are ablaze.

Recognising the psychological toll, camp volunteers hope for government assistance in providing counselling service to support both children and adults.

In contrast, the Akampat Girls' Ideal College relief camp, overseen by the Thongju Kendra Relief Committee and sponsored by Minister Th Biswajit, presents a different narrative.

Aside from government relief aid, Minister Th Biswajit personally fulfils the camp's needs.

Any deficiencies are promptly addressed by the Deputy Commissioner and the Chief Medical Officer of Imphal East district.

At Eastern Ideal High School, 140 displaced students are enrolled, receiving free private tuition from renowned Biology tutor Irengbam Loyangamba.

Samananda, an inmate, plays a pivotal role in ensuring education for these displaced students.

Women inmates receive training in various crafft, such as Lei Nachom, dishwashing, silk thread production, paper bag making, floor phenyl preparation, snack production, and decorative flower crafts.

These creations are marketed under the brand 'Minungshi' .

Furthermore, camp organizers plan to install around 10 handlooms in the community hall adjacent to the camp, offering women inmates opportunities for income generation.

Regular health check-ups and immunisations for children are also provided.

However, a significant challenge faced by the camp is waste management.

With a substantial number of inmates and limited space for waste disposal, the camp grapples with decaying waste that poses health hazards to both inmates and neighbouring residents.

Despite appeals, the Imphal Municipal Corporation (IMC) has yet to initiate waste collection efforts, raising concerns among the camp organisers and inhabitants alike.

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