Imphal: Thokchom Somorendro, Coordinator of COCOMI, issued a grave warning on Sunday, alleging the Government of India’s involvement in fomenting a ‘proxy war’ in Manipur.
He urged Ministers and lawmakers to act swiftly before the situation worsens. These concerns arise amidst reports of suspected Kuki militants setting fire to numerous homes belonging to Meiteis in Jiribam.
Addressing the issue at the organization’s headquarters, Somorendro lamented the priorities of state officials, highlighting their attendance at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony while the state grappled with turmoil. He reminded them of their duty as elected representatives to lead and protect the populace, emphasizing that their positions become meaningless when the state is in crisis.
Recalling similar incidents in Serou and Moreh, where Assam Rifles allegedly facilitated the burning of homes, Somorendro pointed out a recurring pattern in Jiribam. He stated that the deployment of state security personnel holds no value if they fail to safeguard vulnerable areas.
Issuing a stern ultimatum, he demanded the government to restore displaced families to their homes within ten days, warning of dire consequences otherwise.
Questioning the effectiveness of agreements like the SoO signed with Kuki militants, Somorendro cautioned against the continuation of proxy conflicts by both the Government of India and the state government. He warned that failure to cease such actions would compel the people of Manipur to resist against what he termed as “double-engine governments.”