Manipur’s flagship tourism event, the Sangai Festival, set to open on November 21 after a two-year gap, is facing mounting resistance as civil society groups, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and a banned rebel outfit intensify protests across the state. The opposition reflects deep public frustration over the government’s decision to proceed with the festival despite the continuing ethnic conflict.
A 24-hour general strike called by the outlawed KCP-MC (Progressive) on Wednesday brought normal life in the Imphal valley to a standstill. Shops, schools, markets and offices remained shut, while roads wore a deserted look as residents complied with the shutdown. The rebel group had earlier announced a boycott on November 9, citing the “collapsed law-and-order situation.”
IDPs—displaced by the ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, leaving over 260 dead and more than 60,000 displaced—are preparing for sit-in protests from Thursday. Many have spent more than a year in relief camps and argue that the government must prioritize security, rehabilitation and restoration of rights before hosting any public celebrations.
The festival, named after the endangered Sangai deer, showcases Manipur’s culture, arts and indigenous traditions. First held in 2003 and rebranded in 2010, it is the state’s premier annual cultural event.
The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (Cocomi) has also declared a total boycott and called for a ceasework on the opening day. “Security and justice before festival façade. No peace, no Sangai Festival,” said convenor Khuraijam Athouba.
Despite the escalating opposition, the government—currently under President’s Rule—has appealed for public participation, saying the festival is vital for economic revival, boosting tourism and supporting artisans. Whether the event can draw crowds amid widespread resentment remains uncertain.
