IDPs oppose house listing exercise without rehabilitation

Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) currently taking shelter in relief camps have raised strong objections to the proposed house listing exercise in Manipur, stating that the process cannot be undertaken while they remain displaced from their homes.
The concern was voiced during a meeting held at Sajiwa Relief Camp, where IDPs, along with members of the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD), deliberated on the government’s announcement to begin house listing from September.
Speaking on the occasion, Khoirom Dhamen, an IDP from Ekou currently residing at the camp, stated that initiating house listing without ensuring the return of displaced families would be impractical and unjust. He pointed out that since the outbreak of violence on May 3, 2023, many families have been forced out of their homes after their houses were burnt down, leading them to take shelter in various relief camps across the state.
He stated that under such circumstances, the government should reconsider its decision and prioritise the rehabilitation of IDPs. He further noted that individuals residing in relief camps do not possess house numbers or proper residential details, making their inclusion in the house listing exercise difficult.
Dhamen also cautioned that proceeding with the exercise without addressing these concerns could lead to widespread opposition from IDPs across Manipur, and any resulting consequences would have to be borne by the government.
During the meeting, JFD Convenor Jeetendra Ningomba raised concerns over the alleged influx of illegal immigrants into the state, stating that it has led to growing demographic anxieties among the indigenous population. He remarked that the issue has become a matter of public concern and requires wider awareness.
He further alleged that the demand for a separate administration by certain groups has prolonged the displacement crisis, with many IDPs continuing to remain in relief camps for almost three years.
He urged the government to introduce policies aimed at safeguarding the interests of the indigenous people and questioned the lack of strict legal action against armed groups involved in violence.
The gathering also appealed to the government to clearly outline how the proposed house listing exercise would be conducted for IDPs currently residing in relief camps without proper housing details, particularly if the process is to commence from September.