The long-standing turmoil surrounding the Wushu Association of Manipur has left athletes and their families in deep distress, with calls growing louder for immediate intervention. Since 2019, players have been deprived of financial assistance sanctioned by the YAS (Youth Affairs & Sports) Department due to internal disputes within the association.
The delay has forced families to bear the brunt of expenses for their children’s participation in national tournaments. Some players have represented Manipur in major events such as the National Championships, Federation Cup, Regional and National Khelo India meets, and national team selection trials—traveling 4–5 times a year. In many cases, entire families, including younger siblings, have had to make sacrifices to support a single athlete’s journey.
Due to the ongoing conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities, the Kukis have been blockading national highways for nearly two years, making road travel impossible. As a result, air travel has become the only viable option, adding a significant financial burden to already struggling families. Many have sold land and livestock to cover these rising costs.
Despite the gravity of the crisis, the dispute within the association remains unresolved and is currently pending in the High Court of Manipur. Sources say the lack of a conclusive verdict has stalled all efforts to disburse the sanctioned financial aid or organize official selections.
Players and their families are now making a heartfelt appeal to both the court and concerned authorities to deliver a judgment without further delay. They urge that the matter be resolved in the best interest of the sport and its athletes, who continue to suffer both emotionally and financially.