Imphal: Displaced residents from 15 households of Dolaithabi village in Imphal East district stepped into their native village for the first time in more than three years on Monday, as Manipur govt began their resettlement process.The families, accompanied by officials from the district administration and security personnel, inspected their homes. The houses, which were either burnt during the conflict or destroyed by weather due to prolonged abandonment, were found to be no longer inhabitable.The visit marked the beginning of efforts to facilitate the return of residents who had remained displaced for over three years. Officials assessed the condition of the houses and reviewed arrangements required to support the rehabilitation of the returning families.The displaced families have been living in relief camps at Sawombung and Sajiwa in Imphal East district since the outbreak of the conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in May 2023. They had repeatedly appealed to the govt to fulfil its commitment to facilitate their safe return and rehabilitation.Dolaithabi, a Meitei village in the periphery of Imphal East, has 37 households. While all 37 households have received financial assistance to rebuild their homes in instalment, officials said resettlement will begin first for the 15 households, along with deployment of security forces.On Sunday, dozens of Kuki people took out a rally near the Dolaithabi village against the resettlement bid.Security forces have been deployed in the area to ensure the safety of the returning villagers and to assess the security situation ahead of permanent resettlement.The villagers expressed hope that the inspection visit would pave the way for their early return and the reconstruction of their homes, allowing them to rebuild their lives after years of displacement.Earlier this month, the Manipur home department in an RTI response, revealed more than 43,000 people continue to live in relief camps and pre-fabricated housing across the state.Kangpokpi district recorded the highest displaced population at 15,694, followed by Bishnupur with 10,092 and Churachandpur with 6,365 as on April 30.
