IT News
Imphal, May 2:
As Manipur approaches the second anniversary of the ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has announced a series of public events to observe the day and reflect on the ongoing crisis faced by the Meitei community.
Khuraijam Athouba, Convenor of COCOMI, stated that May 3 remains a painful and significant date for the people of Manipur. To mark the occasion, a public convention titled “Manipur People’s Convention on Two Years of Manipur Crisis” will be held at the Khuman Lampak parking area, near the Indoor Stadium. The event will begin at 11:30 a.m. and is expected to witness large-scale participation from across the state.
Later in the evening, a candlelight tribute will be held at 6:00 p.m. at Kangla Nongpok Thong in honour of those who have lost their lives during the ongoing unrest. Athouba said there is a noticeable wave of enthusiasm and solidarity among the public, with many expressing their willingness to participate and support the programme.
COCOMI has also coordinated with law enforcement authorities to ensure the event proceeds smoothly. The convenor confirmed that meetings were held with the Superintendent of Police, Traffic, as well as the SP of Imphal West. Traffic management plans have been drawn up in consultation with the Transport Subcommittee of COCOMI.
According to the arrangements, entry to the event venue will be through the 9th IRB main gate. All vehicles coming from Imphal East and Thoubal areas are advised to travel via Lamlong Bridge to access the 9th gate. Vehicles from Imphal West are expected to enter through the Khongnang Ani Karak route. Parking will be facilitated inside the Khuman Lampak complex, including areas near the hockey stadium, main stadium, cycle velodrome, and the swimming pool.
COCOMI also acknowledged the assistance being extended by interstate and district transport associations, who are helping with the transportation of participants. Several local clubs and civil society organisations are also involved in mobilising support and managing logistics. They appealed to private individuals to extend their support in whatever way possible to make the programme a collective success.
Meanwhile, the COCOMI Women’s Wing has appealed to the public not to organise any celebrations or festivals on May 3. They have also urged people to suspend all work-related activities and keep markets closed as a gesture of collective mourning and reflection. The women’s wing has emphasised the importance of unity and silence in honouring the memory of those affected by the conflict.
COCOMI Student Front Convenor Chukham Bidyananda stated that the central government has failed to take any substantive action for the people. He criticised the Indian government for doing little to facilitate the return of those living in relief camps to their homes. He urged the public to come together tomorrow to collectively decide the next course of action.
