Women’s groups issue ultimatum over assault on Somorjit Meitei

Three prominent women’s organisations have warned of consequences if those allegedly involved in the assault on Mayengbam Somorjit Meitei fail to publicly identify themselves and explain their actions, amid rising tensions over attempts to disrupt a recent public mobilisation.
The joint statement was issued by the All Manipur Women’s Social Reformation & Development Samaj (Nupi Samaj), All Manipur Tammi Chingmi Apunba Nupi Lup (Tammi Chingmi) and Ereipak Enath Chanurra Loina Silon (EECHAL) during a press meet held at Lamphelpat.
However, it was the intervention by Trongbram Ibemcha that set the tone of the briefing, delivering a sharp critique of what she described as a deliberate attempt to sabotage a democratic public movement.
Ibemcha alleged that during the April 25 programme organised by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) under the banner “Leingakta Meeyamgi Wahang Khongchat,” certain individuals not only attempted to derail the initiative but also spread misleading narratives and subjected Somorjit Meitei to intimidation and attempted assault. She termed the act “highly condemnable” and warned that such actions strike at the core of democratic participation.
“At a time when Manipur is passing through a deeply fragile phase, marked by fear, displacement and uncertainty, targeting individuals associated with public movements only weakens collective efforts,” she said, adding that while the government has failed to adequately address pressing concerns, civil society groups have stepped in to engage with the public.
Issuing a clear warning, Ibemcha demanded that those responsible come forward and clarify their roles before the public without delay. “If there is any justification, let it be placed transparently before the people. Silence will only raise serious questions about intent,” she said, cautioning against what she described as attempts to mislead the public and discredit grassroots organisations.
She further raised concern over broader regional developments, noting reports that ceasefire arrangements involving armed groups in the Northeast may run until 2029. She warned that mishandling such sensitive issues, particularly in smaller and conflict-affected states like Manipur, could deepen existing fault lines and trigger further instability.
Calling for unity, Ibemcha urged all sections of society to act responsibly and refrain from actions that could fragment public cohesion. “This is a time for collective responsibility, not division,” she said.
Echoing similar concerns, Th. Ramani stated that those involved in the alleged assault must publicly acknowledge their actions before both COCOMI and the general public. She warned that failure to do so within a reasonable timeframe would compel the organisations to initiate further steps.
Yambem Momon Leima also condemned the incident, stating that individuals entrusted with social responsibility cannot be allowed to engage in acts of aggression. She called for restraint and unity, urging the public to remain focused on resolving the ongoing crisis that began on May 3, 2023.
The organisations maintained that any attempt to undermine democratic platforms or intimidate participants would not be tolerated, signalling a hardening stance by women’s groups amid the evolving situation in Manipur.