The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has condemned the killing of Mayanglambam Rishikanta Singh, describing the incident as a brutal act and alleging that the Central government has failed to control armed militant groups operating in the violence-hit state.
Addressing to media persons, COCOMI Convenor Y.K. Dhiren said the killing took place at a time when civil society groups and various sections of the public were making continuous efforts to restore peace and normal life in Manipur. He said the incident was deeply unfortunate and showed that the security situation in the state was worsening.
Dhiren stated that more than 60,000 security personnel have been deployed in Manipur to deal with the unrest, but alleged that the presence of such a large force has not succeeded in stopping the activities of armed militants. He claimed that civilians continued to lose their lives while armed groups were able to operate freely.
He further alleged that militants were using advanced weapons and moving without restraint, while the authorities failed to take firm action. According to him, the situation had crossed acceptable limits and required urgent intervention.
The organisation also questioned the effectiveness of the deployment of central and paramilitary forces in protecting civilians. Dhiren said that if innocent people could not be protected, the purpose of the deployment needed to be reviewed. He added that such forces should return only when normal conditions could be ensured.
COCOMI reiterated its demand for immediate and decisive steps by the Government of India to restore law and order, fix responsibility, and prevent further loss of civilian lives in Manipur.
Meanwhile, security agencies have not issued any official response to the allegations. Police said an investigation into the killing of Mayanglambam Rishikanta Singh is underway.