Archive · 6 Nov 2025
Manipur IDPs Protest Ration Cash Transfer, Cite Insufficient Funds
People who had to leave their homes are upset because the money they are getting to buy food isn't enough.
They were told they would get a certain amount, but the money they actually received is less.
Some money seems to have been taken out for things like delivery fees.
They used to get rice directly, but now they get money, and they feel the amount is so small they can't even buy enough rice for one day.
They want the officials to explain how the money is calculated and to make sure they get the full amount they are supposed to receive.
They have asked for their problems to be fixed soon, or they might protest more.
IDPs from Manipur relief camps protested at the Sawombung SDO Office over ration cash allowances.
Protesters returned their one-month ration allowance received via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
IDPs expressed dissatisfaction with receiving Rs 84 per person, citing discrepancies with government announcements and a Rs 16 deduction.
Protesters questioned the adequacy of Rs 4 per day for rice, contrasting it with previous direct distribution.
IDPs demand transparency and fairness in relief, threatening to intensify protests if grievances are not addressed within ten days.
- Who
- Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Sawombung and Sajiwa relief camps, and the Apex Committee of Victim Villagers
- What
- Protested against the cash transfer of ration allowances, returning the disbursed money due to alleged discrepancies and insufficient amounts.
- When
- Wednesday (November 6)
- Where
- Sawombung SDO Office in Imphal East
- Why
- Dissatisfaction with the cash transfer system for rations, citing insufficient amounts (Rs 84 per person) and perceived contradictions with earlier government announcements, with concerns over the calculation and a Rs 16 deduction.
IDPs' Concerns
Government/Admin Perspective
Amount Disbursed
IDPs' Concerns
IDPs are receiving only Rs 84 per person, which they feel is insufficient and contradicts earlier announcements of Rs 80 plus Rs 20 for ration. They question how they can buy rice for Rs 4 a day.
Government/Admin Perspective
While not directly stated, the administration is disbursing cash via DBT. Reports suggest Rs 16 was deducted for rice distribution charges, leading to the final amount.
Ration System
IDPs' Concerns
IDPs are dissatisfied with the replacement of direct ration supply with cash transfers, demanding transparency and fairness. They recall a previous system where Rs 20 was charged for 400 grams of rice per day.
Government/Admin Perspective
The government has implemented a cash transfer system via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for relief allowances.
Communication and Coordination
IDPs' Concerns
The Apex Committee of Victim Villagers blames poor coordination and lack of clear communication between departments for the confusion.
Government/Admin Perspective
Executive Magistrates and local authorities intervened to calm the situation, indicating attempts at resolution.
- Protest Location
- Sawombung SDO Office, Imphal East
- Protesting Groups
- Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Sawombung and Sajiwa relief camps
- Date of Protest
- Wednesday (November 6)
- Amount Received per Person
- Rs 84
- Alleged Deduction
- Rs 16 (reportedly for rice distribution charges)
- Per Day Rice Allowance
- Rs 4