Manipur Government Responds to COCOMI Queries, Urges Peace

Imphal, April 25: Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam stated that the government remains firmly committed to safeguarding the interests and security of indigenous communities in Manipur.

Key Points from the Press Conference

Addressing the media, the minister said:

• The government had earlier invited Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity for a high-level meeting, which was declined
• Despite this, the Chief Minister held discussions with various representatives and listened to public grievances
• A memorandum containing seven key questions was submitted by COCOMI representatives

He emphasised that:

Protecting indigenous communities remains a strong commitment of the government.

On Security and Anti-Terror Measures

• The minister reiterated that both the Centre and state are committed to eliminating terrorism and unlawful elements, especially those possessing illegal arms
• He confirmed that major incidents, including:
  
  • The Tronglaobi attack where two children were killed
  • The T.M. Kasom ambush involving civilian deaths
    have been handed over to the National Investigation Agency
• An NIA team led by a senior officer recently visited Tronglaobi for investigation

On CRPF Firing and Judicial Inquiry

• Regarding demands for a judicial probe into the alleged firing by the Central Reserve Police Force near Gelmol, which reportedly killed three civilians, the minister said the matter requires further discussion

Resettlement of IDPs

• Plans to resettle internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been delayed due to:
  • Recent violence
  • Movement of 87 companies of central forces for election duties in other states
• The government is working to resume the process but noted security concerns and public apprehension in some areas

On Suspension of Operations (SoO)

• The state government has previously resolved to abrogate the SoO agreement with Kuki militant groups
• However, since the agreement is under the purview of the Centre, the state cannot act unilaterally

Identification of Illegal Immigrants

• The minister said the process of identifying illegal immigrants had begun even before the conflict
• He added that it is part of a national policy applicable not only to Manipur but other states as well

Call for Dialogue and Peace

Konthoujam urged COCOMI to engage in dialogue and appealed to the public to:

• Act responsibly
• Support efforts to maintain peace and law and order

The statement comes at a time of heightened tensions in Manipur, with ongoing investigations, public protests, and continued calls for accountability and stability across the state.