The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has urged the Manipur Government to hold dialogue with the United Naga Council (UNC) to resolve the ongoing economic blockade, while alleging that the Government has failed to effectively address the prolonged conflict and security concerns in the State.
In a statement, COCOMI said the conflict, which began in May 2023, has severely affected the social and economic life of the people and alleged that successive governments at the State and Central levels have failed to take adequate measures to restore lasting peace.
The COCOMI alleged that several cases involving killings and attacks remain unresolved and questioned the progress of criminal investigations and delivery of justice.
COCOMI also referred to incidents involving Naga civilians, including the reported abduction of 18 Liangmai women, including minors, in May and the subsequent recovery of bodies of men in June. It alleged that such incidents reflected continuing security challenges in the State.
The COCOMI said it had repeatedly launched agitations and submitted demands to the State and Central Governments seeking restoration of peace, protection of civilians and justice in cases of violence.
On the ongoing economic blockade imposed by the UNC, COCOMI said the disruption had caused hardship to the people of Manipur. It urged the State Government to engage the UNC and find a solution through dialogue.
COCOMI further alleged that armed groups continue to carry out attacks and questioned the Government’s response to recent incidents involving security forces and civilians.
The COCOMI warned that if the Government fails to take timely and effective steps to resolve the blockade and address the security situation, it may be compelled to join the economic blockade in support of the people’s interests.
COCOMI maintained that restoring peace, ensuring security, and delivering justice are the Government’s primary responsibilities and urged the authorities to take immediate steps to address the prevailing situation.