With India approaching the second anniversary of the communal violence that broke out in Manipur on 3 May 2023, the Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR) is seriously concerned about the extended displacement of more than 50,000 people and urges the Indian government to implement immediate steps towards safe, voluntary, and dignified resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs).
The confrontation with the Meitei population and other tribes such as the Kukis has compelled tens of thousands into unsanitary and overcrowded relief camps. Even after President’s rule was declared in February 2025, the human rights situation does not look hopeful, with thousands of individuals devoid of proper health, sanitation, food, and shelter.
It is appalling that the Indian government has let this crisis go on for two years. Failure to formulate a clear, time-bound rehabilitation policy is a betrayal of fundamental human rights commitments. The authorities have to move immediately to facilitate the safe and dignified return of displaced families.
Fear, Insecurity, and Inaction
Although displaced people strongly yearn for the ability to go back home, it is impossible under conditions of pervasively widespread fear and insecurity in the absence of state assurances of security. Most homes are still in ruins or under occupation by armed groups. Without state-organized reconstruction or protection, the return becomes far-fetched.
Inhumane Conditions in Relief Camps
Camp conditions continue to be abysmal. Families complain of poor medical facilities, food shortages, congested accommodations, and poor access to clean water and sanitation. Infectious disease outbreaks are frequent, and patients suffering from chronic illnesses have no access to treatment. Though Union Home Ministry allocations amounting to INR 21.7 million have been made, displaced communities complain of minimal state assistance.
WCHR Demands:
A speedy, transparent, and participatory plan of rehabilitation for the safe, voluntary return of all displaced communities; Improvements to health, sanitation, and nutrition standards in relief camps with a pressing urgency; A separate investigation of human rights abuses committed after May 2023 with an aim to hold the high-ranking authorities and armed opposition groups accountable; An assurance of protection, reconstruction assistance, and judicial remedy to all persons affected.
Impunity begets more violence. The Government of India has to pursue all serious abuses and provide justice to the victims. Reconciliation and rehabilitation are not possible without accountability.
India is a party to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) and is under obligation from the UN Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement. The persistent failure to attend to displaced populations in Manipur constitutes a direct violation of international human rights law. WCHR urges the Indian government to act in accordance with its obligations and to avert the institutionalization of this humanitarian crisis.