Why is the Meitei Community Demanding a ‘Farmer Safety Zone’?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In light of a recent shooting incident involving a farmer in Manipur, the Meitei Community's apex body, COCOMI, has called for urgent government action to establish a ‘farmer safety zone’. This initiative aims to ensure the safety and security of farmers amidst rising violence in vulnerable agricultural areas. Learn more about the demands for enhanced protection for the farming community.
Key Takeaways
- COCOMI calls for a farmer safety zone to protect vulnerable agricultural areas.
- Recent violence against farmers has raised concerns about their safety and livelihood.
- Demands include shoot-at-sight orders for unauthorized armed individuals.
- Investigations into security lapses are urged to hold responsible parties accountable.
- Enhanced security measures and support for injured farmers and their families are critical.
Imphal, June 21 (NationPress) The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), the leading organization representing the Meitei Community in Manipur, has recently called upon the government to establish a ‘farmer safety zone’ with shoot-at-sight protocols in vulnerable agricultural regions.
The demand from COCOMI follows an alarming incident on June 19, where Ningthoujam Biren Singh, a farmer from Phubala Awang Maning Leikai, was shot in the left arm by unidentified assailants while tending to his paddy field in Phubala Maning, Bishnupur district.
Initially treated at the District Hospital in Bishnupur, Singh was subsequently referred to the Regional Institute of Medical Science (RIMS) in Imphal, where his condition is currently stable.
According to Laikhuram Jayenta, convenor of COCOMI's Information and Public Relations wing, the attack occurred after an apparent breach of three layers of security in the area.
COCOMI denounced the incident as a deliberate act intended to instill fear among farmers, disrupt agricultural endeavors, and undermine peace within the valley.
The injured farmer, now incapacitated for the season, faces grave threats to his family's food security and economic stability, as stated in COCOMI's announcement.
On June 20, a delegation led by COCOMI convenor Khuraijam Athouba visited the scene of the attack and engaged with local residents to understand the situation better. They later met with high-ranking police officials, including Additional Director General of Police L. Kailun and Inspector General of Police K. Kabib, to discuss urgent security measures.
The meetings emphasized the necessity for immediate security provisions and long-term safeguards for farmers during the cultivation season. COCOMI presented several requests to the government, demanding that foothill agricultural areas be designated as farmer safety zones with shoot-at-sight orders for unauthorized armed individuals.
Furthermore, a transparent inquiry into the security failure was urged, along with accountability for the involved security personnel.
COCOMI also called for the establishment of a permanent security post in the High Canal area, unrestricted access to traditional farmland for Meitei farmers, enhanced mobile patrols with more security personnel, and comprehensive medical and financial support for the injured farmer and his family.
Additionally, they requested the deployment of two to three extra companies of central forces for routine mobile patrols while ensuring all existing security posts remain operational for continuous monitoring of sensitive farming areas.
Highlighting the importance of slogans like “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” being reflected in tangible protection, COCOMI reaffirmed its commitment to the farming community in Manipur, urging both state and central governments to respond swiftly and effectively.
The day after the shooting incident, the Manipur government announced plans to bolster security measures for farmers in high-risk areas, according to officials.
A senior police officer confirmed that adequate security would be implemented to safeguard farmers in their fields and avert further incidents.
Point of View
The safety of farmers is paramount to ensuring food security and maintaining peace in agricultural regions. The call to establish a 'farmer safety zone' by COCOMI reflects the urgent need for protective measures in vulnerable areas, highlighting the broader implications of violence on rural livelihoods and community stability.
NationPress
21/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the 'farmer safety zone'?
The 'farmer safety zone' aims to protect farmers from violence and ensure their safety while cultivating their land, particularly in vulnerable areas.
What incident prompted COCOMI's demands?
The demands were prompted by the shooting of Ningthoujam Biren Singh, a farmer who was attacked while working in his paddy field.
What are the key demands made by COCOMI?
COCOMI demands include the establishment of safety zones, transparent investigations into security breaches, and enhanced security measures for farmers.
How does the government plan to respond to this situation?
The Manipur government has stated it will provide increased security to farmers in vulnerable areas to prevent further incidents.
Why is this issue significant for the Meitei Community?
This issue is significant as it directly affects the livelihood and safety of the Meitei farmers, crucial for their food and economic security.
