Imphal: The Sangai Festival, Manipur’s annual state-organised tourism event, has recorded a strikingly low turnout this year, largely due to ongoing protests by internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by ethnic conflict, officials said on Sunday.

Dramatic Fall in Attendance

After a three-year hiatus caused by ethnic violence, the festival returned on November 21, 2025, but drew only about 1,000 visitors per day, totaling roughly 8,000–9,000 attendees over the festival’s first nine days. This is a stark contrast to the 2.19 lakh visitors recorded during the 10-day festival in 2022, before the May 2023 ethnic conflict erupted.

Tight security measures were enforced throughout the event amid fears of disruptions by protesters. Many stalls remained empty or closed, and those operating struggled to attract customers. According to Thai Gangmei, a food stall owner, “The few buyers included the personnel and officials deployed at the venue. Stall owners, including those from outside the state, struggled to earn profits during the festival.”

Protests by Displaced Persons

The low turnout coincided with protests by displaced people from Churachandpur district and surrounding areas of Imphal East, who clashed with police at multiple points including Yaingangpokpi, Pukhao Terapur, and Phougakchao Ikhai. More than 10 protesters suffered minor injuries after tear gas was used to disperse crowds.

The IDPs, backed by civil society organisations and student groups, demanded the right to return to their homes, arguing that the state’s decision to hold the festival signals a return to normalcy that has not yet reached their communities.

Festival Highlights Amid Challenges

Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla inaugurated the festival, describing it as a “unifying platform” to showcase Manipur’s **cultural richness, entrepreneurship, and tourism potential,” while urging citizens to participate wholeheartedly.

The only notable highlight was a musical concert featuring the British band Blue, held on Saturday evening at Khuman Lampak, which attracted a sizeable audience.

Background of Ethnic Violence

Since May 2023, ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and hill-based Kukis has left more than 260 people dead and thousands displaced. The ongoing unrest continues to affect public events, travel, and tourism in the state.

This year’s Sangai Festival, despite its intended role as a symbol of unity and cultural celebration, has underscored the lingering social tensions and humanitarian challenges facing Manipur in the aftermath of the conflict.