Manipur govt working to facilitate return of IDPs, says CM Khemchand

IMPHAL, OCT 5: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday said his government is working tirelessly to facilitate the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their respective homes and restore normalcy in the state following the ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023.
Addressing a programme held at the City Convention Centre in Imphal, Singh said the state government has been making concerted efforts since assuming office on February 4, 2026, to rehabilitate displaced families and bridge the trust deficit that emerged during the prolonged crisis. He noted that several rounds of discussions have been held with civil society organisations (CSOs) and IDP representatives to address concerns and promote reconciliation.
The event featured the distribution of welfare benefits worth Rs 2.19 crore to eligible labour card holders and internally displaced persons under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan and various schemes of the Manipur Building and Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board (MBOCWWB).
According to the chief minister, the violence that began on May 3, 2023, displaced more than 60,000 people and claimed over 260 lives. While around 36,000 displaced persons have been resettled, more than 24,000 people continue to live in relief camps across the state.
Singh acknowledged the hardships faced by those living in relief camps, describing the inability to return home as deeply distressing. He added that the government has been striving to ensure that basic needs and welfare benefits reach affected families. As part of these efforts, 2,531 IDPs are currently receiving assistance through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
The chief minister also highlighted the positive impact of the resumption of bus services between Imphal and Guwahati via Dimapur, stating that the service has eased travel for students and athletes, particularly given the high cost of air travel. He said nearly 450 to 500 passengers are using the route daily.
Under a special scheme for educational assistance to children staying in relief camps, 2,531 beneficiaries received Rs 1.42 crore. Additionally, eight beneficiaries were provided Rs 19 lakh under the accidental death assistance scheme, while 194 beneficiaries received Rs 58.2 lakh under the natural death benefit scheme.
Rajya Sabha MP Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi, who attended the programme, commended the government’s efforts to restore peace and support those affected by the crisis. Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, several MLAs and Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakur were also present on the occasion.