The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity has urged people across the state to support a complete boycott of the upcoming Sangai Festival. The group issued the call as tensions continue to affect several communities. The annual cultural festival, which usually attracts thousands of visitors, now faces uncertainty due to rising public anger and growing dissatisfaction with the current situation in the state.
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COCOMI Issues Appeal Amid Rising Public Sentiment
COCOMI released its appeal through a public statement, calling on residents to stand united. The organisation said the boycott is necessary to highlight unresolved issues affecting the state. It added that normal celebrations should not continue when several communities are still dealing with hardship, insecurity, and displacement.
The COCOMI boycott Sangai Festival call drew attention to the sentiment that peace must return before any large celebration takes place. The organisation said the boycott is not directed at cultural identity but at the current conditions that make public celebrations seem inappropriate.
Members of the committee also noted that the festival requires large resources and heavy deployment of security forces. They argued that these resources should instead support relief, rehabilitation, and urgent state matters. Their statement appealed for patience, unity, and collective responsibility during this challenging phase.
Public Response Grows as Tensions Remain High
Following COCOMI’s announcement, support for the boycott gained traction across several districts. Social groups, student bodies, and local leaders began sharing messages online, urging the public to respond calmly and responsibly. Many residents expressed concern over the ongoing situation and said celebrations feel out of place when communities remain unsettled.
People also pointed out that several displaced families have not yet returned home. They said cultural celebrations must reflect the emotional state of society, and the current climate does not support large-scale festivities.
At the same time, some community groups asked the government to reassess conditions before finalising any public event. They said authorities must prioritise peace-building and dialogue rather than festival preparations.
Concerns Over Security and Public Mood
Security concerns form a major part of COCOMI’s appeal. The organisation said holding a large festival during a sensitive period could strain security forces, who are already working across multiple regions. They warned that the festival may lead to unnecessary crowding, movement, and activities that could complicate the situation.
Officials in several districts have also been reviewing the atmosphere. They indicated that public mood remains tense, and any large gathering must be approached carefully. The COCOMI boycott Sangai Festival statement emphasised that the safety of residents should come before celebrations.
People familiar with festival arrangements said security deployment typically covers major roads, venues, and important public areas. This scale of deployment may not be ideal during a period of heightened tension. Many residents believe the state must focus on restoring stability first.
Impact on Cultural and Economic Activities
The Sangai Festival remains one of Manipur’s biggest cultural events. It showcases traditional dance forms, local crafts, indigenous sports, and regional cuisines. Local businesses, artists, and cultural groups often depend on the festival for income and recognition.
However, several businesses said they understand the public mood and the reason behind the boycott call. Some artisans expressed fear that low turnout may affect their earnings but agreed that the state must address larger issues before hosting major celebrations.
Tourism operators also acknowledged that the ongoing situation has already reduced visitor interest. They said the COCOMI boycott Sangai Festival call simply reflects concerns that were already visible among the public.
Government Yet to Announce Final Decision
The state government has not yet made a formal announcement in response to the boycott call. Officials said they are reviewing inputs from security agencies, local bodies, and community groups. They also stated that safety and public sentiment will guide the final decision.
Government departments linked to festival planning have begun informal consultations to understand the mood on the ground. Some officials indicated that postponing or scaling down the event may be possible, depending on the next review.
COCOMI said it expects the government to consider the collective voice of the people. It added that unity is essential for stability and that celebrations should resume only when communities feel secure and hopeful again.
A Crucial Moment for the State
The call for a statewide boycott reflects the tense atmosphere in Manipur. Many residents believe the state must focus on healing and restoring normal life before holding large public events. The COCOMI boycott Sangai Festival appeal has opened a wider conversation about priorities, security, and public morale.
As discussions continue, people across the state await the government’s decision. For now, the focus remains on peace, stability, and collective responsibility during a challenging period for Manipur.
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