IT News
Imphal, Nov 29:
COCOMI Coordinator Thokchom Somorendro has raised concerns about the current situation in Manipur stating that “There is no unity, only shortsightedness. There is no understanding of what is really going on. We need a diverse strategy to address the issues.”
Th. Somorendro highlighted the recent disappearance of Laishram Kamalbabu, a Meitei worker from Assam, who went missing from the Leimakhong Army camp. He criticized the Assam Rifles for their inaction, alleging that they do nothing when Kuki militants fire from their territory. “At this juncture, we are divided. In every constituency, people are split into two camps—pro-MLA and anti-MLA. There is no sense of patriotism for Manipur anymore; everyone is focused on their personal gains,” he lamented.
He contrasted this disunity with the unity among the Kuki community, noting, “For the Kukis, both their MLAs and organizations work together. We are not doing the same.”
Th. Somorendro also clarified the controversy surrounding the decision to call off the recent strike at Ima Market.
Addressing the incident where Th. Somorendro shouted at women in the market while suspending the recent sit-in-protest at the market, he said, “Some people pressured the strike to end so as to reopen the market for business. When we reach the agreement with the state government, some women came and objected to it so I shouted because of that, but why make this go viral? Why focus on my behavior instead of the larger issue?”
The strike was called off after reaching an agreement with the state government, which promised to take action against the Kukis responsible for the Jiribam killings. However, the central government did not fulfill any of the demands till now.
The women had raised objections that they should suspended only after visible action and a video of Th. Somorendro shouting at women who disagreed with the women went viral.
On the disappearance of Kamalbabu, COCOMI’s women’s wing coordinator, Leirikleima, warned of a massive women’s movement if he is not returned alive by the army. She added, “We used to trust the army, but that trust has now eroded.”
Th. Somorendro urged the Meitei community to set aside personal interests and focus on collective efforts to address the challenges facing Manipur.
