Imphal, Nov 22 (NNN): Fresh tension occurred at the Torbung-Kangvai “buffer zone” area along the Bishnupur–Churachandpur border of Manipur on Saturday when Meitei internally displaced persons (IDPs) attempted to march towards Churachandpur district. Security forces blocked the protesters along National Highway-2 (Tiddim Road), preventing further escalation.
The displaced families, sheltered at the Kwakta relief camp, held a demonstration demanding immediate resettlement in their original homes. They criticised the government’s decision to resume the Sangai Festival while thousands continue to live in relief camps.
“If the Sangai Festival means peace is restored, why can’t we go home?” questioned protester Koijam Sarat, expressing frustration over the prolonged displacement.
The Sangai Festival, Manipur’s premier tourism event, returned this year after a two-year hiatus following the ethnic conflict that erupted in May 2023.
Meanwhile, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) issued a statement condemning the march, accusing the IDP protesters of attempting to breach the “buffer” line and provoke the Kuki-Zo community. The council said the “protesters’ coordinated movement”, despite restrictions, led central forces to use teargas and smoke shells to control the situation.
“This reflects a recurring pattern of provocation and intimidation,” said Ginza Vualzong, secretary (information and publicity) of the council. He added that peace cannot prevail “when one community continues to break the peace while the other is forced to remain in constant vigilance.”
Reasserting its demand, the KZC stated that “a Union Territory with constitutional safeguards” is the only viable solution to ensure lasting stability and security for the Kuki-Zo people.
