New Delhi, June 07: A civil society group in Manipur has expressed deep concern over the intensification of attacks by Kuki extremist groups, stating that the escalating violence has deterred the State’s youth from surrendering their arms.
In a memorandum addressed to Home Minister Amit Shah, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) highlighted the series of attacks perpetrated by Kuki outfits against the Meitei people residing in the Imphal Valley and surrounding foothills. The organization called for urgent action to address the prevailing situation.
COCOMI, representing the Meitei community, underscored that the recent appeals for peace made by Home Minister Amit Shah have had limited impact on the ground.
Despite the Home Minister’s stern warning and the suspension of operations by 25 extremist groups affiliated with the Kuki-Zomi tribes, normalcy is yet to be restored in the periphery of the Imphal Valley.
COCOMI expressed disappointment at the alleged inaction of the Assam Rifles and other security personnel, which has led to growing resentment among the people and a loss of faith in the central government’s efforts.
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In its memorandum, COCOMI appealed to Amit Shah “for one last time” on behalf of the people of Manipur to take decisive action against the defiant Kuki terrorists. The group emphasized that failure to rein in the Kuki extremists would force the Meitei community and other affected villagers to organize a new wave of protest and action against those targeting innocent civilians.
It also highlighted the reluctance of local youths to surrender their arms due to the intensified attacks by the Kuki outfits, which have exhibited continuous aggression towards Meitei villages since June 1.
The memorandum further revealed that over 4,000 firearms and 2 lakh ammunition were snatched from police facilities across the Imphal Valley following the outbreak of violence on May 3.
Unfortunately, less than 20% of these weapons have been returned, despite Amit Shah’s visit to the state from May 29 to June 1. The ongoing violence has resulted in the loss of over 100 lives and the displacement of around 35,000 individuals in Manipur.
The COCOMI’s memorandum to Home Minister Amit Shah highlights the urgent need for effective action to address the escalating violence perpetrated by Kuki extremist groups in Manipur. The organization’s appeal for immediate intervention underscores the growing concerns among the Meitei community and affected villagers.
As the situation remains volatile, swift measures are crucial to restoring peace and security in the region, safeguarding innocent lives, and fostering harmony among various communities in Manipur.
