IMPHAL, Nov 19: The Sangai Festival 2025 has become the centre of a major political and social standoff in Manipur, with the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) announcing a complete statewide shutdown on November 21, the opening day of the festival. The influential valley-based civil body has urged residents to stay indoors and observe a “cease-work, stay-at-home” protest, alongside locality-level sit-ins declaring non-participation.
COCOMI leaders said the boycott stems from worsening public anger over the prolonged humanitarian crisis following the ethnic conflict. Convenor Khuraijam Athouba noted that thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) continue to live in relief camps, while free movement along Manipur’s key National Highways has remained restricted for more than two years.
“This festival is not for the people; it is only for officials and government agents,” Athouba said, calling for solidarity with IDPs and urging widespread participation in protests on November 20 and 21. The group also rejected a government invitation for talks with the Chief Secretary, citing “short notice” and lack of a clear agenda.
Amid the rising tensions, the Manipur Governor convened a late-night closed-door meeting with MLAs and top officials to seek support for ensuring that the festival proceeds without disruption. The Congress, meanwhile, extended support to the sentiments of displaced communities, saying it would stand with “any decision collectively made by the IDPs.”
Government officials have defended the decision to go ahead with the Sangai Festival, arguing it is vital for stabilising the state and reviving the tourism-driven economy. “Festivals like Sangai are crucial for generating revenue and restoring a sense of normalcy,” a senior official said.
