Manipur’s biggest annual cultural — Sangai tourist festival — has been marred by violent clashes that have injured at least 3 people.
Hundreds of protesters were seen engaging in skirmishes with the police. The Sangai cultural fair was returning after a 2 year pause, which was caused by ethnic clashes in Manipur.
Turns out the protesters were sent by a Meitei civil society body that advocates for those internally displaced by conflict. In simple words, the protesters want government to focus on resettlement of the displaced before arranging ‘extravagant’ tourist festivals.
Manipur has been bitterly divided since May 2023, when violence broke out between the mainly Hindu Meitei majority and the largely Christian Kuki community.
Tens of thousands were forced to flee their homes at the time and are still living in makeshift camps established by the government.
The civil society organisation said the government should “restore the fundamental rights and freedom of movement of all citizens, ensure the safe return of all internally displaced people to their homes.”
They also demanded “re-establishment of peace and normalcy across Manipur, and stopping all forms of coercion and suppression against civilian voices”, according to Indian Express.
The 10-day event, which began on November 21, is scheduled to have film screenings, a football tournament, polo and adventure activities, and a display of traditional art of Manipur. This year’s festival is the 12th edition. It is returning after a 2-year hiatus.
Manipur ethnic violence
Manipur in the northeast has been bitterly divided since May 2023, when violence broke out between the mainly Hindu Meitei majority and the largely Christian Kuki community. More than 250 people are believed to be killed in the various violent episodes.
Tensions between Meiteis and Kukis, rooted in competition for land and government jobs, have long simmered in the region.
The violence has also displaced tens of thousands of people who are still living in makeshift camps established by the government.
Manipur's former chief minister N. Biren Singh resigned in February after criticism he failed to stop the bloodshed there. The state of nearly three million people has since been ruled directly from New Delhi.
