IT News
Imphal, April 24:
Coordination Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) condemns the bomb blast at a bridge at Koubru Leikha along the national highway. In a statement realised by COCOM today, it demands an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the incident. The state government must swiftly hand over the case to the NIA to ensure justice for the affected 3.5 million residents of the state, the statement added.
On the evening of April 23, 2024, Manipur was shaken by yet another bomb explosion, suspected to be orchestrated by Kuki militants. The targeted structure was a crucial bridge along Asian Highway 1 (National Highway 2), a vital lifeline connecting India and Myanmar. This artery serves as a crucial conduit for trade and connectivity throughout Southeast Asia, catering to the needs of 3.5 million local residents. The attack occurred within the Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi District in Manipur, India.
The Kuki Student body from the region issued a press release condemning the heinous act. The COCOMI statement stated that this bombing is not an isolated occurrence; a similar attack took place in the Kwakta areas of Churachandpur district border on June 21, 2023. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had previously probed this incident, leading to the apprehension of several individuals associated with Kuki Narco-Terrorist Groups within the Kuki community. Adding to the distress, recent assault targeted LPG and petroleum tankers along National Highway 37, particularly in the Kaimai area under Tamenglong district, on April 16, 2024. Gunfire inflicted damage on the tankers, resulting in oil and gas leakages and injuries to several drivers. The perpetrators, identifying themselves as the United Kuki National Army (UKNA), issued threats of further violence, challenging both the government’s authority and the Meetei Community, the statement added.
According to COCOMI, this reprehensible act constitutes a blatant war crime, considering the targeted highway’s critical role as a lifeline for 3.5 million inhabitants in the region. It underscores the attackers’ callous disregard for human life and fundamental humanitarian principles. All parties involved, including the KSO executive, must undergo thorough investigation, as they may possess crucial information regarding the incident, the statement added.
