Nongchup Imphal Loumee Sinmi Chaokhat Thourang Lup has opposed the proposed Sangai Festival, urging the government to prioritise relief for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and compensation for farmers affected by the violence that began on May 3, 2023.
In a press release, the farmers’ body said many farmers had been unable to cultivate their fields for three consecutive years due to security concerns, resulting in severe livelihood losses. It alleged that compensation provided for the first year had failed to address their continuing hardships, leaving many struggling to meet basic family needs.
The organisation also highlighted the plight of IDPs living in relief camps, including those who had lost homes and family members and continued to face insecurity and movement restrictions.
Questioning the proposed festival expenditure amid the prevailing crisis, the body urged the government to reconsider the event and redirect resources towards relief assistance and compensation for affected farmers.
It also backed the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity’s (COCOMI) opposition to holding the festival under the current circumstances and pledged support for its campaign.