IDPs Defy Authorities, Swim Across River to Reclaim Homes in Manipur

In a bold display of resilience, around 27 IDPs braved heavy rains and swam across the Iril River to reach their abandoned village. They have evaded the security cordon by wading across the Iril River, reaching Dolaithabi despite the blockade on roads.

Earlier, approximately 100 internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the Meitei community in Imphal East district attempted to return to their homes in Dolaithabi village after two years in relief camps at Sajiwa Jail. Citing ongoing security concerns, authorities blocked the group’s path near Pukhao Terapur.

Upon arrival, the group faced a grim reality: homes burned to ashes, belongings looted, and farmlands occupied by Kuki living nearby their village. Rajkumar Prem Singh of Dolaithabi Maning Leikai, speaking to media described the scene: “Except two houses, entire village have been burnt and destroyed. The Kuki have been farming our lands.” He voiced the group’s frustration with life in the camps, where earning a livelihood is nearly impossible. “If we stay here, we can farm and survive. We cannot return to that life,” he stated.

Security personnel from Saikul, tasked with enforcing restrictions, followed the IDPs and directed them to return to the camps due to ongoing safety risks. They expressed understanding but cited orders from higher authorities.

The Deputy Commissioner of Imphal East has promised the IDPs they could return to their villages within two months, a commitment that offered cautious hope.

Rajkumar issued a stern warning, stating that if the promise is not kept, the IDPs would return and “commit suicide by hanging” in their homes as a final protest. The brief visit, marked by emotional reunions with their devastated properties, highlighted the dire circumstances faced by the displaced.

Photo credit – Elangbam Mushuk

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