Displaced Families in Manipur Face Uncertainty as Relief Camps Set to Close

Two years after violent ethnic clashes displaced tens of thousands in India’s north-eastern state of Manipur, many affected families are confronting an uncertain future. The state government has announced plans to shut down all temporary relief camps by December, but questions remain over where residents will be resettled.
The 2023 violence erupted between the Meitei, who primarily live in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki communities in surrounding hill districts. Sparked by protests over tribal status and government benefits, the clashes claimed at least 260 lives and forced around 60,000 people into makeshift shelters.
While authorities have repeatedly promised rehabilitation, many displaced families remain effectively homeless and without stable income. Anxiety intensified when officials announced that residents would be relocated to pre-fabricated housing, without clarifying whether these units would be near their original homes or far from them.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit offered limited reassurance, with an announcement of 7,000 new homes in “appropriate locations” but few details. On the ground, security forces continue to patrol buffer zones separating the two communities, highlighting persistent divisions.
For many, returning home is far from straightforward. Hatnu Haokip, 22, now living in Churachandpur, said she cannot go back to her village in the Imphal Valley, which is now surrounded by Meitei residents. “Home is only one place for me,” she said, adding that she would feel safer if the Kuki community were granted some form of autonomous governance.
Others, like Meitei resident Irom Abung, remain determined to reclaim their pre-conflict homes. “My land remains. I will never sell it because I know I will return one day,” he said, urging efforts to bridge divides between communities.
Mental health concerns are rising inside the camps. Residents report prolonged stress, limited access to healthcare, and incidents of despair, including suicides, due to unemployment and uncertainty. Nemhoichong Lhungdim, a single mother, shared how her son lost sight in one eye after struggling to access medical care.
Even families who have moved to temporary housing continue to face economic challenges. Chingakham Radha, now earning a small income making crochet dolls, described her life as precarious. “Some days my husband finds work, but other times weeks go by without any income,” she said.
Government officials insist resettlement plans are proceeding and emphasize the importance of returning people to their original areas when safe. “Eventually, we want to resettle people where they fled from, once conditions allow,” a senior official said, acknowledging residents’ concerns while stressing the need to prevent long-term social division.
As the December deadline approaches, tens of thousands remain in limbo, uncertain if they will ever be able to return home or regain a stable life in Manipur.