The Manipur Youth League (MAYOL) has opposed the holding of the Sangai Festival in the present situation, arguing that the government should prioritise restoring peace and addressing the hardships faced by people affected by the ongoing conflict.
In a statement, MAYOL said the conflict that began on May 3, 2023, had entered its fourth year without a lasting resolution. It questioned the priorities of political leaders preparing for the 2027 Manipur Legislative Assembly election, saying efforts should instead focus on the prevailing situation and the future of the state.
MAYOL said many families continue to face severe hardships, with 33 people still unaccounted for, while many internally displaced persons remain unable to return to their homes. It also expressed concern over children whose education has been disrupted by the conflict.
The organisation said the government should give priority to programmes aimed at restoring peace, improving public welfare and addressing the difficulties faced by people affected by the crisis. It maintained that government programmes could succeed only with public support and a clear understanding of the people’s situation.
MAYOL also expressed support for the boycott of the Sangai Festival announced by several civil society organisations, stating that holding the festival at the present juncture was not appropriate.
The organisation urged those responsible for public affairs to take into account the condition of the people before proceeding with such programmes.
