IMPHAL, Dec 3: A coalition of five proscribed unlawful groups in Manipur on Wednesday asked all individuals and organisations which participated in the recently concluded Sangai Festival to issue a public apology before December 10, calling the event a betrayal of the suffering of internally displaced persons.
In a joint statement, leaders of the Kangleipak Communist Party, Kanglei Yawol Kanba Lup, People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak, PREPAK (Progressive), and United National Liberation Front said “displaced persons are struggling to survive in relief camps” and the “Meitei people cannot travel freely along the national highways and are being confined to Imphal valley.”
The outfits also alleged the government of not doing anything to resolve the conflict.
The G-5 further stated that all artists, business enterprises, professionals and stall owners who participated in the festival to issue a public apology by December 10.
The groups also announced a one-year ban on any performance on four major drama troupes which participated in the event, beginning December 5 for standing against the wishes of the people.
The Sangai festival was held from November 21 to December 30 amid protests by displaced persons demanding they be allowed to return to their homes.
(By Our Correspondent)
