The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has strongly criticised the State Government over the prolonged unrest in Manipur, alleging that its actions and continued inaction have raised serious questions about its commitment to restoring peace and normalcy in the state.
In a statement, COCOMI alleged that the prevailing situation reflected the State Government’s role in what it described as a proxy war being waged by the Government of India. The organisation questioned whether the government was deliberately allowing armed and disruptive elements to enter the state by extending logistical support to them.
COCOMI said people were increasingly questioning the government’s intentions, particularly when successive political leaders continued to appeal for public cooperation in resolving the crisis without adequately responding to constructive suggestions from the public.
The organisation maintained that several practical suggestions had already been put forward by the people to address the prevailing situation, but the government had allegedly failed to take meaningful action on them.
It further stated that repeated appeals for public support, alongside the continued deterioration of the situation, had raised doubts about the government’s genuine commitment to resolving the crisis.
Warning of serious consequences for future generations, COCOMI said there could be no assurance of lasting peace unless the State Government took decisive action against the forces it alleged were responsible for perpetuating the unrest.
Referring to the recent violent incident at New Heaven in Litan, under Litan Police Station in Ukhrul district, in which four Tangkhul individuals reportedly lost their lives, COCOMI said the incident exposed the government’s failure to prevent violence and protect lives.
The organisation also expressed concern over communities in conflict-affected areas being drawn into unnecessary confrontations without considering the wider consequences. It cautioned that continued hostilities would ultimately harm all communities rather than serve the interests of any particular group.
Pointing out that Manipur has been grappling with the crisis since May 3, 2023, COCOMI said the prolonged conflict had severely affected the state’s social, economic and overall development. It warned that the economic damage caused by the unrest could take another 10 to 20 years to overcome.
COCOMI emphasised that the crisis could never be resolved through violence, hatred or mutual destruction. It appealed to all concerned to recognise that continued confrontation would only deepen public suffering, destroy opportunities and undermine the state’s prospects for development.
Reaffirming its commitment to Manipur’s unity and integrity, the organisation called upon all communities to promote mutual understanding, respect one another’s identities and work collectively towards building a peaceful and progressive state.
COCOMI also reiterated that it would continue to oppose any force it believes threatens the collective identity and integrity of Manipur and remain committed to safeguarding the unity of its people.
