Amid the crisis situation caused by unprecedented incidents of violence and arson at several places across Manipur, several relief camps have been opened at different locations across the state. However, many relief camps run by local clubs are reportedly facing shortage of essential items, sources said.
The relief camps are run by the state government as well as the local clubs and meira paibis in the state. As many as 45,000 people have been evacuated to these relief camps so far, according to official sources.
Among the evacuated people, around 13,800 are secured in relief camps in Imphal West, 11,800 in Imphal East, 4,500 in Bishnupur and 5,500 in Churachandpur. The remaining around 9,400, including 1500 in Churachandpur, have been given safe passage, the sources said.
While the government is making all possible efforts to ensure adequate supply of essential food items at the government run relief camps, those run by the locals clubs at government schools, community halls and club buildings are facing a hard time to provide relief materials and food items to the evacuated lot.
Moreover, the ones with children and small babies are facing more difficult times in providing baby friendly food items to the small babies.
One such camp lacking essential items was witnessed by the Imphal Free Press at Sambei in Imphal East which was run by the local clubs and meira paibis. A total of 113 women and children are provided shelter in the camp. Around 15 of them are below three years of age.
Those staying in the relief centre are those evacuated from places such as Ekou, Sadu Yenguman and Dolaithabi whose houses were burnt down during the clashes that erupted between two communities in several parts of the state on May 3-4.
Many organisation and individuals have donated aid to the relief camp, but it is not enough to feed all the 113 individuals provided sheltered at the camp, the local clubs said.
In view of the dire situation at the relief camp, Sambei Youth Club president Nongthombam Sanker Singh drew the attention of the state government for assistance to ensure that the inmates are well looked after especially the small children.
Also Read: Manipur Violence: 1500 get safe passage; 5,500 in relief camps in Churachandpur
