IMPHAL : The 12th edition of the Manipur Sangai Festival was inaugurated yesterday by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Hapta Kangjeibung, Imphal, an event shadowed by unprecedented opposition, widespread protests, and a near-total public boycott across the state.

The much-anticipated festival, returning after a two-year hiatus, commenced under multi-layered security arrangements as several key organizations, including the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) and groups representing Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), strongly condemned the decision to host the event.

Protesters argued that celebrating a cultural festival is “highly insensitive” while thousands of citizens remain displaced from their homes due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis and state-wide normalcy has not been restored. Reports from the inauguration at the Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre (BOAT) confirmed one of the sparsest public turnouts in the festival’s history, with the crowd largely comprised of security personnel and government officials.

Clashes between demonstrators and security forces were reported in Imphal East district on Friday, as protesters, including displaced families, attempted to march towards the festival venue. The opposition also triggered a ‘cease work’ call by COCOMI, leading to a shutdown-like scenario in Imphal Valley with markets closed and public transport largely off the roads.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Bhalla, accompanied by the First Lady, defended the celebration, framing the Sangai Festival as a “Festival of Oneness” and a crucial platform for economic revival and tourism promotion.

“Manipur’s cultural heritage is a national treasure,” the Governor stated, noting that the multi-venue format adopted this year demonstrates the state’s resilience and collective drive toward economic recovery, expected to boost livelihoods for artisans and local enterprises. He also reiterated the state’s legacy as the birthplace of Modern Polo (Sagol Kangjei) and efforts to conserve the endangered Manipuri Pony.

Acknowledging the humanitarian crisis, the Governor stressed that the welfare of IDPs remains a top government priority. He outlined ongoing state measures for affected families, including:

”         Phased rehabilitation

”         Financial aid and cash-assistance programmes

”         Provision of prefabricated shelters

The Governor appealed to the public to uphold the festival’s spirit of unity and expressed a strong hope for the swift return of peace and harmony.

The 10-day festival is scheduled to feature a range of events, including cultural showcases, indigenous sports, adventure tourism, literary sessions, the Hiyang Tannaba boat race, and the Cherry Blossom Festival at Mao.

Promotional | North East Integration Rally