Social activist and advocate Seilienmang Haokip, along with his associates, has set a five-day deadline for the Manipur government to respond to allegations of misappropriation and diversion of rice meant for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and economically vulnerable sections in Churachandpur district.
Speaking to media persons at the KIC complex in Tuibong on Wednesday, Haokip alleged that rice supplied under the Open Market Sale Scheme – Domestic (OMSS-D) for IDPs, along with rice distributed under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), is being diverted and sold in the black market in Imphal.
He claimed that out of the monthly allocation of 2,000 quintals of OMSS-D rice meant for IDPs, a substantial quantity is being illegally siphoned off, depriving beneficiaries of essential food supplies.
Haokip further stated that since the introduction of the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme on November 1, 2025, providing Rs 84 per person per day, many IDP beneficiaries have not been receiving adequate food support.
Alleging collusion, he accused officials of the Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (CAF&PD) Department in Imphal, along with transport contractors, of diverting rice and essential commodities meant for Churachandpur, thereby aggravating the humanitarian situation in the district.
Citing records from the Tuibong Sub-Divisional Office, Haokip pointed out that while 6,504 inmates are residing in 38 IDP camps, only 4,295 individuals are reportedly receiving DBT benefits, indicating a significant gap in relief distribution.
Demanding accountability, Haokip urged the state government to furnish a detailed report within five days on the alleged irregularities. He cautioned that failure to address the issue may trigger intensified democratic forms of agitation, including bandhs and closure of government offices, in consultation with the public and civil society organisations.