Preparations for the much-awaited Sangai Festival 2025 are moving ahead in full swing at Hatta Kangjeibung, even as thousands of internally displaced people (IDPs) continue to live in relief camps across the state, expressing growing resentment and frustration.
Scheduled to take place from November 21 to 30, the annual festival has turned into a flashpoint this year, with displaced communities questioning the government’s priorities under President’s Rule. Across several relief camps in the valley districts, mass sit-in protests were organized, reflecting anger and disappointment among those who have been forced to live in difficult conditions for more than two and a half years. Demonstrators also gathered near the festival venue, denouncing the decision to hold a celebration while many families lack basic necessities such as food, shelter, and proper healthcare.
Many IDPs voiced their concerns in plain terms, asking whether “the value of the Sangai deer is being placed above the lives of displaced people.” Their protests highlight the stark contrast between the colorful festival preparations and the harsh realities faced by those living in relief camps. 
Despite the ongoing protests, work at Hatta Kangjeibung continues uninterrupted under tight security, which now covers the entire area. Workers are busy erecting structures, setting up decorations, and preparing the festival grounds. This year, the festival will feature a total of 600 stalls, including 159 food stalls, 261 commercial stalls, and 15 sponsor stalls. Authorities had reserved some stalls specifically for displaced families, but none of the IDPs opted to participate, citing their focus on survival over celebration.
While many displaced people acknowledge that they cannot force the government to cancel the festival, they have appealed to the public to think carefully before supporting the event. “People should think about the plight of IDPs before celebrating,” one protester said, urging empathy and compassion from the wider community.
As the countdown to November 21 begins, the contrast between the vibrant festival preparations and the grim reality faced by thousands of displaced families continues to fuel debate over governance, priorities, and the need for humanitarian sensitivity in Manipur.
