What Happened When MHA and COCOMI Met in Delhi?
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Synopsis
In a crucial meeting in New Delhi, COCOMI and MHA officials discussed the pressing issues facing Manipur, including peace restoration, narco-terrorism, and the protection of citizens' rights. This dialogue highlights the ongoing struggle for stability in the region and the commitment of local leaders to address these challenges head-on.
Key Takeaways
- COCOMI is committed to restoring peace in Manipur.
- Meeting with MHA highlighted concerns over narco-terrorism.
- Demands for accountability from local officials were emphasized.
- Free movement and protection of citizens' rights are critical issues.
- The May 20 incident has sparked significant public outrage.
New Delhi/Imphal, May 27 (NationPress) The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), the apex body of the Meitei community, convened a discussion with officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in New Delhi on Tuesday, reaffirming its steadfast dedication to reinstating peace in the region.
The seven-member team from COCOMI, led by Khuraijam Athouba, expressed a willingness to support all legitimate efforts aimed at restoring normalcy during their meeting with MHA officials.
“We urged the Indian government to take swift and effective measures against anti-peace elements that jeopardize peace initiatives,” stated Laikhuram Jayenta, the publicity committee convenor of COCOMI.
The meeting included representation from the MHA, with A.K. Mishra, Advisor on Northeast Affairs, and Rajesh Kamble, Joint Director of MHA. Jayenta noted that the delegation articulated the strong feelings and demands of the public regarding the events of May 20, related to the Gwaltabi issue, where security personnel in Imphal East allegedly instructed a media team to obscure the “Manipur State Transport Corporation” signage on a bus carrying 20 journalists and officials from the Information Department.
He added that MHA officials assured that this matter would be addressed with necessary governmental action.
During the meeting, COCOMI reiterated its rejection of the legitimacy of militant groups under the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement, asserting that engagement with innocent civilians from the Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi-Hmar communities should be approached with care after addressing the anti-peace elements.
The United Peoples' Front (UPF) and Kuki National Organisation (KNO), alliances of 23 underground groups, entered into SoO with the Central government on August 22, 2008, resulting in 2,266 Kuki cadres residing in various designated camps across Manipur.
At the time of the SoO’s signing, Congress was in power in Manipur.
Following Tuesday's meeting, COCOMI expressed deep concern regarding the escalating threats from narco-terrorism, cross-border illegal immigration, extensive illegal opium cultivation, rampant forest encroachment, and the worsening law and order situation.
The COCOMI delegation emphasized that the proceeds from these unlawful activities are being utilized to finance armed groups led by individuals based abroad.
“Alarmingly, these groups have been in political dialogue with the Indian government since 2008 and continue to receive financial backing and protection under the guise of the peace process. COCOMI urged the government to urgently reassess its dealings with these factions,” the statement declared.
COCOMI also demanded the assurance of free movement for individuals throughout the state, including hilly areas, safeguarding farmers’ cultivation rights along with appropriate compensation for their losses, protection of sacred religious sites, justice for missing individuals, and the resettlement and redress of grievances for displaced persons (IDPs).
After a 48-hour shutdown in the six Imphal valley regions from May 21-23, COCOMI has been leading a second phase of agitation in Manipur since May 25, protesting the removal of the state’s name from a government bus on May 20.
On May 24, COCOMI announced a series of intensified protests, including daily demonstrations at the main entrance of the Governor’s residence.
COCOMI has also called for a public apology from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla regarding the May 20 incident and demanded the resignations of Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh, Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, and Director General of Police Rajiv Singh, holding them accountable for failing to uphold the dignity and integrity of Manipur.
The Manipur government has established a two-member committee to investigate the May 20 incident.
Point of View
It's vital to acknowledge the complexities surrounding the situation in Manipur. The commitment of local bodies like COCOMI to engage with the government demonstrates an eagerness for lasting peace, yet the challenges posed by external elements remain significant. A balanced approach, ensuring the voices of all stakeholders are heard, is essential for true reconciliation and stability in the region.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is COCOMI?
COCOMI stands for the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity, which is the apex body of the Meitei community focused on ensuring peace and integrity in Manipur.
What issues were discussed in the meeting?
The meeting focused on restoring peace in Manipur, addressing narco-terrorism, illegal immigration, and the rights of citizens.
What demands did COCOMI make?
COCOMI demanded free movement for citizens, compensation for farmers, and accountability from government officials for recent incidents.
What is the significance of the May 20 incident?
The May 20 incident involved security personnel instructing a media team to conceal state signage, prompting public outrage and demands for accountability.
How is the government responding to the demands?
The government has formed a committee to investigate the May 20 incident and is reviewing its engagement with local groups.
