Imphal: Tension rose in Imphal East on Monday after hundreds of displaced families clashed with security forces while attempting to return to their homes in the sensitive border areas of Ekou, Dolaithabi and Yengkhuman. These families have been living in relief camps for months following the ethnic unrest that began in Manipur in 2023.

According to officials, the displaced people began marching toward their villages in the morning, saying they could no longer remain in camps without proper income or stability. They argued that the government has been promoting a return to normal life with the ongoing Sangai Festival and that they should also be allowed to go back to their homes.

Security personnel stopped the marchers near Pukhao and close to the Dolaithabi dam area, stating that the villages lie in highly sensitive zones bordering the hill district of Kangpokpi. Forces said the situation in those locations is still risky and that returning large groups of people could trigger fresh violence.

As the crowd continued to push forward, security forces fired tear gas to disperse them. Several people were affected by the tear gas, and the area remained tense for hours. No major injuries were reported, but the confrontation has added to growing frustration among the displaced families.

Many protesters said they feel ignored despite repeated claims of improving conditions in the state. They demanded that the government give a clear plan and timeline for safe resettlement, saying they have been waiting for too long in the camps.

Authorities have not announced any new measures but have maintained that movement into the restricted zones will be controlled until they believe the situation is fully safe.

The incident highlights the ongoing struggle of thousands of people who were forced from their homes during the violence and are still unable to return more than two years later.