The Sangai festival was held from November 21 to 30 amid protests by IDPs demanding that they be allowed to return to their homes.

At least 260 people were killed and thousands homeless in ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur since May 2023.

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 alleged that displaced people are struggling to survive in relief camps.

The outfits also alleged the government was not doing anything to resolve the conflict.

They said that all artists, business enterprises, professionals and stall owners who participated in the festival should 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, allegedly for going against the wishes of the people.