Serious allegations have emerged regarding the diversion of food supplies meant for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and economically vulnerable families in Churachandpur district.
Seilenmang Haokip, an advocate and social activist based in Lamka, has accused officials of misappropriating rice allocated under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic).
Addressing media personnel at Tuibong Relief Camp, Haokip claimed that essential commodities intended for IDPs and poor households are being diverted and sold in the black market in Imphal. He alleged that officials from the CAF&PD Department, in collusion with transport contractors, have siphoned off large quantities of rice, worsening the already fragile humanitarian situation in Churachandpur.
According to Haokip, despite a monthly allocation of 2,000 quintals of OMSS (D) rice for IDPs, the supplies have not reached beneficiaries since the implementation of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) at ₹84 per person per day starting November 1, 2025. He described the financial assistance as grossly inadequate to meet basic needs.
Official records from the SDO office in Tuibong indicate that out of 6,504 individuals residing in 38 IDP camps, only 4,295 are currently receiving DBT benefits. Additionally, non-camp IDPs have reportedly been excluded from the scheme altogether, raising concerns over gaps in implementation.
The activist has demanded that the Government of Manipur provide a detailed report within five days addressing the alleged irregularities. He also called for the immediate suspension of officials involved, blacklisting of transport contractors, and initiation of legal proceedings.
Haokip warned that failure to respond to these concerns could trigger intensified democratic protests, including bandhs and shutdowns of government offices, in coordination with civil society groups.
The Hills Journal
K. Salbung, Churachandpur
Manipur-795128
