GG News Bureau
Imphal, 18th Feb. In a move to address the ongoing crisis in Manipur, an umbrella body of civil society organizations representing the Meitei community has urged Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to take immediate steps to restore an elected government within a month. This call comes after the imposition of President’s Rule in the violence-hit state on February 13 following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh.
On Monday, representatives of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) met Governor Bhalla at the Raj Bhavan in Imphal, where they submitted a detailed 13-point memorandum outlining steps they believe could restore peace in the region. COCOMI expressed concern over the lack of a clear agenda from the Meetei group in addressing the crisis and noted that the violence appears to be fueled by groups pushing for a separate administration.
One of the major recommendations from COCOMI involves dismantling and evicting illegal villages across the state, which they claim pose a threat to the demographic and environmental integrity of Manipur. The group also called for an immediate halt to all violent activities and the unauthorised movement of armed groups to restore peace and security.
Furthermore, COCOMI emphasized the need for security measures to protect affected villages, especially those with civilian village defense forces, and requested amnesty to prevent further violence. They also pressed for the elimination of any efforts for a separate administration, emphasizing that the territorial and administrative integrity of Manipur must remain intact.
The Raj Bhavan, in response, acknowledged the memorandum and stated that Governor Bhalla had heard the concerns of COCOMI representatives, including convenor Kh Athouba, and urged cooperation with the government to restore harmony.
In their memorandum, COCOMI raised concerns about the involvement of “Chin-Kuki narco-terrorist separatist groups,” accusing them of seeking territorial gains in Manipur under the guise of loyalty to India. The group called for a review of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, which it believes has enabled militancy and exacerbated the violence. The SoO agreement, which allows militant groups to stay in designated camps while their weapons are stored securely, has been a point of contention, with accusations that the groups have used the ceasefire to regroup and strengthen their positions.
The civil society group also highlighted the urgent need for a reestablishment of law and order across both the hills and plains of Manipur. They called for immediate relief for those affected by the violence, including financial assistance, reconstruction of villages, and the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Ensuring the safe return of IDPs, along with unhindered access to healthcare, education, and transport services, was also stressed in the memorandum.
The violent clashes between the Meitei and Kuki tribes, which began in May 2023, have led to severe disruptions in Manipur. The underlying issues involve land rights, political representation, and the demand for separate territory, with both communities accusing each other of exploiting the situation for their own gains.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Governor’s role will be critical in managing the state’s path toward stability and peace.
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