In a significant move towards restoring normalcy, the Manipur government on Thursday officially commenced its large-scale resettlement initiative by relocating 257 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). This marks the first formal step in a long-awaited process aimed at rehabilitating thousands uprooted by the ethnic conflict that began in May 2023.
A Milestone Moment for Peace and Return
The resettlement event was flagged off by Pooja Elangbam, the Deputy Commissioner of Bishnupur district, from a school relief camp. A total of 64 households, comprising the 257 individuals, were relocated to a village in the Nambol sub-division. Elangbam described the day as a profoundly meaningful milestone, stating it signifies not just a physical return to homes but also a positive stride towards forging a more peaceful and stable society in Manipur.
Behind the Scenes: A High-Level Committee Drives the Process
This development follows closely the formation of a crucial state-level committee just two days prior, tasked specifically with strengthening and accelerating the rehabilitation and resettlement of IDPs. The committee is led by the state's Chief Secretary and includes top officials from key departments: the Commissioners of Finance, Home, and Rural Development and Panchayati Raj. The Special or Additional Secretary of the Home department acts as the Convenor, ensuring focused execution of the plan.
The Scale of Displacement and Destruction
Official records provide a stark picture of the conflict's impact. The total number of IDPs in the state has seen a reduction from a peak of approximately 62,000 to around 57,000 currently. However, the path to full recovery remains long. The violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, led to the complete destruction of houses belonging to an estimated 7,000 to 8,000 families, highlighting the immense challenge of rebuilding not just communities but also physical infrastructure.
The resettlement of these 257 persons is thus viewed as a pilot and a symbol of hope. It sets in motion a complex governmental process that balances immediate humanitarian aid with the long-term goal of sustainable reintegration. The success of this initial phase will be closely watched, as it paves the way for the eventual return of tens of thousands still living in relief camps across the state.
