Meitei Community Protests at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, Demands Return of Displaced Families

Delhi: Members of the Meitei community staged a protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, demanding the government take immediate action to return people displaced by ethnic violence in Manipur to their homes. Protesters said the government has failed to adequately address the situation and ensure the safe return of those forced to leave their homes.

A woman, whose house in Churachandpur was destroyed during the violence, shared her ordeal. She said she had to flee her home abruptly, leaving behind all her belongings, while she was undergoing training to become a cabin crew member. She added that her passport verification has been delayed by the local police, who claim her house no longer exists at the registered address. “Everyone knows our homes were burned, yet we cannot return. No one is helping us. We are asking for nothing more than our homes, land, memories, and happiness to be restored,” she said.

Protesters further alleged that armed groups continue to prevent displaced people from returning, despite the deployment of thousands of security personnel. They appealed to the Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant, to personally intervene and ensure justice.

Other participants emphasized the urgent need for judicial intervention to restore hope and safeguard the rights of thousands of displaced families. They urged all authorities to act immediately to protect constitutional guarantees and human dignity.

The Meitei community’s protest highlights the ongoing challenges faced by displaced populations in conflict-affected regions and underscores the demand for swift government action to ensure safety, rehabilitation, and restoration of property.