Protesters clash with security at Sangai Fest

Tension gripped Imphal on Thursday as a large number of protesters forced their way into the main venue of the Manipur Sangai Festival at Hapta Kangjeibung, clashing with police and security forces in opposition to the state government’s decision to host the annual tourism event amid the ongoing displacement crisis.
The protest, spearheaded by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), saw demonstrators shouting slogans such as “We boycott Sangai Festival” and “Displaced lives matter not empty festivals.” Many carried placards demanding cancellation of the festival, arguing that thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) continue to languish in relief camps since violence erupted in May 2023.
Police, backed by Central security forces, resorted to baton-charge and fired multiple rounds of tear gas shells to disperse the crowd after protesters attempted to storm the venue. Several sustained minor injuries, while at least two were rushed to nearby hospitals. Eyewitnesses alleged that excessive force was used, including an incident where a doctor was mistakenly lathi-charged.
Two COCOMI leaders, convener Khuraijam Athouba and information and public relations convener Laikhuram Jayenta, along with member Sh Devadutta, were detained during the confrontation. In a statement, COCOMI accused the police of deploying unprovoked force against peaceful demonstrators, including women and displaced persons, and condemned the alleged manhandling of its members.
Civil society groups have consistently opposed the festival, claiming that the government is attempting to project a false image of peace and normalcy. Sit-in protests were simultaneously staged across relief camps in valley districts, where IDPs expressed frustration that resources were being directed toward festival preparations instead of rehabilitation, security and resettlement.
“Organising a mega festival while thousands remain displaced for over two years is against the collective interest and sentiment of the people,” protesters said, urging a complete boycott of the event.
Despite mounting opposition, the 10-day Sangai Festival is scheduled to begin tomorrow, November 21, with a grand inaugural ceremony at Hatta Kangjeibung. The festival, considered Manipur’s premier tourism showcase, is expected to draw visitors from across the country.
Meanwhile, a separate controversy unfolded as Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba lodged a formal complaint against Inspector General of Police (IGP) Themthing Ngashangva. The MP’s office alleged that the IGP forcibly entered the Royal Palace compound around 1:30 pm, accused the MP of sheltering IDPs, and threatened security personnel with legal action.
The complaint, signed by PA/PS Maisnam Shivadutta Singh, described the officer’s conduct as “unruly” and disrespectful, noting that the Royal Palace (Konung) is not merely a private residence but a sacred site of traditional authority. The MP’s office urged the Governor to initiate disciplinary action, including suspension of the IGP, and attached photo and video evidence to support the allegations.
As the Sangai Festival prepares to open under heavy security, the clash underscores the deep divide between government efforts to promote tourism and the continuing hardships faced by displaced communities. The protests highlight growing resentment among civil society groups who insist that rehabilitation must take precedence over celebration.