Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has expressed deep concern over the continuing hardships faced by Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) living in temporary relief camps across Manipur. He stated that the situation could have been mitigated had President’s Rule not been imposed in the state.

As part of the Ningol Chakkouba celebration, the Uripok Apunba Lup and Uripok Apunba Nupi Lup jointly organised a relief distribution programme at Langol Ningthou Laibung, Lamboikhongnangkhong, and Langol Leima Khullen in Imphal West district. Food and gifts were distributed to displaced women staying in relief camps, with around 600 women from two camps participating in the event.

Addressing the gathering, N. Biren Singh recalled that during his tenure, the state government had initiated several measures for the rehabilitation of IDPs, including resettlement in their respective localities, reconstruction of homes, and livelihood programmes. However, he lamented that these efforts appear to have slowed down under the present administration.

He further pointed out that although the number of people in relief camps has reduced, many families have been relocated without adequate rehabilitation measures, leaving them to struggle without proper support. Biren urged the government to take concrete steps to ensure the safety, dignity, and proper resettlement of all displaced persons.

During the event, Uripok Apunba Lup President S. Tikendrajit alleged that certain third parties are exploiting the ongoing situation and stressed the need for transparent and fair rehabilitation processes. He also appealed for continued public support to help improve the living conditions of displaced families still residing in relief camps.