IMPHAL/UKHRUL: The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) on Monday demanded an immediate military crackdown against armed groups and the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement following the killing of three civilians and injuries to two others in suspected gunfire near Sunulok Ching in Khongbal Thangkhul.
Addressing a press conference at the COCOMI office in Imphal, spokesperson Mayengbam Dhananjoy condemned the attack and accused the government of failing to ensure the safety of civilians and maintain law and order in the hill areas of Manipur.
Dhananjoy said the incident had raised serious questions about the government’s repeated assurances regarding free movement, alleging that civilians continued to face threats despite the presence of central security forces in the area.
He held the state government responsible for ensuring the safety of citizens and enforcing law and order across the state. He also alleged that security and law enforcement conditions differed between the valley and hill areas, raising concerns over what he described as the existence of two separate administrative systems in the state.
COCOMI demanded immediate action against those responsible for the attack, calling on both the state and central governments to take effective measures to prevent further violence.
The spokesperson also demanded a military crackdown to disarm armed groups, alleging that Kuki armed groups had repeatedly violated the SoO ground rules. He questioned how the suspected gunmen could move freely and carry out the attack despite the deployment of central forces, including Assam Rifles, in the area.
Describing the incident as a continuation of a war-like situation in the peripheral hill areas, Dhananjoy said such attacks on civilians must be stopped immediately. He urged the central forces to work effectively with state security agencies to restore peace and maintain law and order throughout Manipur.
The deceased have been identified as Arubam Ronil (35), son of Raja Mama Memi of Nongshum Mayai Leikai, and Lairenlakpam Inaobi (51), son of Tombi of Nongshum Awang Leikai. Ksh Sushil (32), son of Ksh Deven of Uyumpok Mayai Leikai, also succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
The two other injured persons, Maisnam Somendro (47), son of Bor Singh, and Ngangom Tonaobi (18), son of Abung, both residents of Nongshum Mayai Leikai, were taken to Raj Medicity Hospital for treatment.
The firing reportedly occurred at around 9:30 am on Monday, triggering anger among local residents.
COCOMI reiterated its demand for immediate government intervention, effective security measures and accountability for the attack, stressing that protecting civilians and restoring peace must remain the government’s priority.