Manipur Sangai Festival Opens Amid Protests and Tensions in Imphal
Ukhrul, Manipur: The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has issued a strongly worded press statement regarding the recent incident in Imphal involving Rajya Sabha MP Sanajaoba Leishemba and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Themthing Ngashangva, calling it a reflection of deeper administrative and governance challenges in Manipur.
In its statement, the apex Tangkhul civil body expressed concern that an issue it described as “an ordinary administrative matter” had escalated disproportionately into a major public controversy. TNL criticised the MP’s decision to urge the Governor of Manipur to suspend the IGP, stating that such action amounted to “pronouncing judgment” without adequately verifying the facts.
According to the organisation, the IGP was present at the location and “taking control of the tense situation” at the time of the incident. TNL argued that, as a people’s representative, the MP should have sought clarity from the officer before arriving at any conclusion. The statement added that the unilateral approach “can and would happen in a kangaroo court,” underscoring the group’s dissatisfaction with how the matter was handled.
The TNL has demanded the immediate formation of a high-powered Enquiry Committee or Commission, to be led by a retired judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court from outside Manipur. The organisation proposed a one-month timeframe for the committee to complete its investigation and submit a comprehensive report.
Closing its statement, the TNL said, “Enough is enough of valley chauvinism,” calling for an impartial and transparent examination of the episode to restore trust in administrative processes.
The Manipur Sangai Festival, the state’s premier tourism event, began today after a two-year hiatus enforced by the ongoing ethnic conflict. But the opening was overshadowed by fresh tensions in Imphal, where displaced residents and several civil society organisations have opposed holding the festival before “peace and normalcy” are restored.
On Thursday, a protest rally organised by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) attempted to march despite prohibitory orders in place under the Imphal East District Magistrate. Security forces blocked the procession, leading to a brief but intense confrontation. Police resorted to a baton charge and fired teargas shells to disperse the crowd. At least three protesters sustained injuries in the scuffle.
In a statement, Manipur Police said the rally was a “clear violation” of the District Magistrate’s restrictions. The force added that IGP (Zone-I) Themthing Ngashangva — recently at the centre of a public controversy following allegations made by Rajya Sabha MP Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba’s office — was personally supervising the situation when the clash occurred.
According to the police, while officers were dispersing the demonstrators, one protester physically assaulted Ngashangva. The crowd then moved towards the Palace compound, where house guards allowed them entry, the statement noted.
The Sangai Festival, known for showcasing Manipur’s art, culture, cuisine and indigenous traditions, is normally a major draw for domestic and international tourists. This year’s edition was intended to signal resilience amid the prolonged conflict. But the opposition from civil society and the tension on the streets have highlighted deep unresolved grievances.
As festivities commence, questions remain about public sentiment and the appropriateness of celebration when normalcy is yet to return to large parts of the state.
