COCOMI volunteer alleges provocation behind yesterday’s assault

A day after a Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) volunteer was allegedly assaulted at Khwairamband Keithel, the victim, Mayengbam Somorjit today said that the mob was instigated by a woman he described as posing as an “Ima” (mother figure), whom he had initially respected.
Recalling the incident, Mayengbam Somorjit alleged that the woman provoked the crowd, leading to the assault on him. He expressed concern over what he termed as misuse of the revered image of “Ima” to mislead people. He further stated that two young women who attempted to shield him during the incident were also reportedly mishandled by the mob.
Condemning the attack, Mayengbam Somorjit said he has been associated with various people’s movements since his student days, including serving as president of the Democratic Students’ Alliance of Manipur (DESAM). He added that he is personally affected by the ongoing crisis, stating that his own brother is among its victims.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Students’ Alliance of Manipur (DESAM) strongly condemned the alleged assault on its former president. Speaking to media persons at Raj Medicity, DESAM Secretary General Thoudam Shyamjai stated that the organisation is preparing to take necessary action over the incident.
He warned that if those involved fail to come forward and admit their actions, DESAM would make public their identities, including photographs and video evidence. Thoudam Shyamjai maintained that such incidents are unacceptable and urged those responsible to take accountability without delay, while also calling for peace to be maintained as efforts for justice continue.