IMPHAL :  Member of Parliament Dr. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam has assured that he will raise the issue of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), the existence of buffer zones, and instances of misgovernance in Manipur during the upcoming session of Parliament.  

The assurance came during a press conference held today at his Keishamthong residence, where the MP also invited suggestions from the people of the state on issues they feel need urgent attention at the national level.

Highlighting four key areas of concern resettlement and dignity of IDPs, the buffer zone issue, and misgovernance MP Bimol expressed deep concern over the state government’s recent announcement to shut down relief camps by December 2025. 

He noted the lack of clarity in the government’s resettlement plan and questioned whether the displaced people have been adequately consulted.  “The government has a moral and constitutional responsibility to ensure safe and dignified resettlement of all IDPs,” he said, emphasising that many displaced individuals, especially from Moreh and Churachandpur, have opposed immediate resettlement plans.

“They are now being shifted to pre-fabricated houses. But how many such houses will be constructed? Will that be enough? These are questions the government has yet to answer,” he added.

Dr. Bimol, who has visited multiple relief camps, shared his first-hand observations of IDPs still living in dire conditions even after two years of displacement. “Lack of proper education, healthcare, and long-term rehabilitation policies has made their lives extremely difficult. I will raise these matters in Parliament to demand justice and dignity for all IDPs,” he said.

On the buffer zone issue, Bimol reiterated that while the government claims there is no such demarcation, the reality is far different. “Free movement is still restricted. I was recently denied access to one area within my own constituency. This is a clear violation of Article 15 and indicates a de facto communal division in the name of maintaining peace,” he said.

The MP stressed that the right to free movement is not a Kuki-Meitei issue but a constitutional matter concerning all citizens. “The state must uphold these rights, and I will ensure this issue is raised in the Parliament with the seriousness it deserves,” he stated.

He also spoke of governance failures he encountered during DISHA meetings and assured that instances of misgovernance and administrative lapses will also be brought to the floor of the House.

Dr. Bimol concluded by reaffirming his commitment: “Wherever I get the opportunity through questions, debates, or speeches I will bring up these four critical issues. I also welcome suggestions and opinions from the people of Manipur, so I can better represent their concerns in Parliament.”

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