Imphal: The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) on Monday demanded an immediate military crackdown against armed groups and the complete abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement following a shooting near Sunulok Ching that left three civilians dead and two injured.
The shooting occurred around 9:30 am in the inter-district area between Imphal East and Kangpokpi. Three victims succumbed to their injuries, while two others remain hospitalised.
The deceased were identified as Arubam Ronil, 35, of Nongshum Mayai Leikai; Lairenlakpam Inaobi, 51, of Nongshum Awang Leikai; and Ksh Sushil, 32, of Uyumpok Mayai Leikai. Maisnam Somendro, 47, and Ngangom Tonaobi, 18, both residents of Nongshum Mayai Leikai, were injured and are undergoing treatment.
Addressing a press conference at its Imphal headquarters, COCOMI spokesperson Mayengbam Dhananjoy accused Kuki armed groups of repeatedly violating the ground rules of the SoO agreement. He questioned how armed men could operate in the area despite the presence of central security forces, including the Assam Rifles.
Dhananjoy also alleged disparities in law enforcement between the Imphal Valley and the hill districts, claiming that the situation reflected the existence of two separate administrative systems.
He said the state government remained responsible for ensuring civilian safety and argued that the shooting had raised concerns over official assurances regarding free movement.
COCOMI called for immediate coordinated action by central forces and state security agencies to restore public order. It also reiterated its demand for the complete withdrawal of the SoO agreement.