COCOMI renews attack on Centre, demands crackdown on militants at Yaingangpokpi protest

The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) today intensified its criticism of the Central Government, alleging that Manipur has become a victim of a “proxy war” and demanding immediate military action against what it described as Kuki narco-terrorist groups.
The remarks were made during a sit-in protest organised by the Yaingangpokpi Village Authority under the aegis of COCOMI at Yaingangpokpi Bazar in Imphal East district. The protest drew large participation from residents of Yaingangpokpi, Thamnapokpi, Sanasabi and Seijang villages, particularly women.
Addressing the gathering, COCOMI Co-Convenor Yumkhaibam Surjitkumar alleged that while the people of Manipur have consistently served the interests of India, the Government of India has failed to protect the interests of the state. He claimed that Manipur is facing the consequences of a “proxy war” and asserted that the rule of law has collapsed in parts of the hill areas.
Surjitkumar further alleged that central security forces remained passive during incidents of violence and destruction that occurred during the ongoing conflict. Referring to the role of women in the crisis, he said mothers and women of Manipur had made significant sacrifices in defending their communities and called upon all indigenous communities of the hills and valley to remain united.
He stressed that the future and rights of the people of Manipur could only be secured through collective action and urged citizens to strengthen efforts to protect the territorial integrity and interests of the state.
During the protest, COCOMI reiterated three key demands: an end to what it termed India’s “proxy war” in Manipur, an intensified military crackdown against alleged Kuki militant groups, and a response from the Manipur Government to the seven questions previously raised by the people.
The protest meeting was presided over by Yaingangpokpi Village Authority President Yelangbam Syamkeso. Village Authority Secretary Sagolsem Indrajit called for unity among all sections of society to collectively address the ongoing crisis.
COCOMI Co-Convenor Phijam Syamchand also addressed the gathering and urged people across communities to work together in resolving the challenges confronting the state.
Meanwhile, a parallel sit-in protest was held at Paorabi Community Hall in Imphal East district under the initiative of Paorabi Nupi Lamjing Lup and under the aegis of COCOMI. COCOMI Core Committee member M. Dhananjoy addressed the gathering and spoke on various issues related to the ongoing situation in Manipur.