Tensions flared in Manipur on Monday, November 24, 2025, as hundreds of internally displaced people (IDPs), eager to return to their native villages, clashed with security forces in the Imphal East district. The clashes occurred in the Pukhao area and near the Dolaithabi Dam, where IDPs confronted security personnel.
The IDPs, who have been living in relief camps since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023, attempted to march towards their homes in Ekou, Dolaithabi and Yengkhuman. However, they were met by security forces who prevented them from proceeding. The security forces resorted to firing tear gas shells to disperse the crowds. In response, some demonstrators hurled stones at the forces. Some demonstrators and two police personnel sustained minor injuries as a result of the clash.
The IDPs' spokesperson stated that the ongoing Sangai Tourism Festival, which commenced on November 21 and is scheduled to last for 10 days, signals that normalcy has returned to their areas. They argued that they should be allowed to return home instead of remaining confined to relief camps. "We are mostly farmers," said S. Kumarjit Meitei, a protester. "Our livelihood has been completely cut off after we were forced to flee our homes. Now that the government has said that normalcy has returned. Our demand is that IDPs be allowed to return to their homes. How long do we stay confined in relief camps? Why can't security forces deal with the militants instead of forcing us to remain in relief camps".
Authorities, however, maintain that the situation is not yet conducive for the safe return of the displaced villagers. They consider the area, which borders the Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi district, to be a sensitive zone and insist that restrictions on movement will remain in place until a comprehensive assessment confirms it is safe for the IDPs to return.
Ekou, Dolaithabi and Yengkhuman, located in the foothills of the Imphal East district, were among the areas most affected by the ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023 between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The violence resulted in over 260 deaths, nearly 1,500 injuries, and the displacement of over 70,000 people, who are now residing in more than 300 relief camps across the Imphal valley and hill districts. The initial catalyst for the unrest was a 'Tribal Solidarity March' held in opposition to the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status.
The situation in Manipur remains tense, with authorities working to maintain order and address the needs of the displaced population. The incident follows a similar clash on Friday, November 21, where demonstrators protesting against the Sangai festival clashed with security forces in Imphal East district. The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) had called for a 'cease work' and opposed the tourism festival, deeming it insensitive to hold such an event while families remain displaced by the ethnic violence.
