Manipur: COCOMI to hold democratic protest along Imphal-Thoubal road on Khongjom Day

The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has announced a democratic protest along the Imphal–Thoubal road on Wednesday, April 22, coinciding with the observance of Khongjom Day, reiterating that its agitation will continue until it receives what it termed an “appropriate response” from the government.

Addressing the media, COCOMI executive member Shanta Nahakpam said the organisation has been carrying out sustained protests since the Tronglaobi incident and will extend its agitation through demonstrations along the Thoubal stretch. He said the timing of the protest aligns with Khongjom Day, when several ministers and legislators are expected to visit the Khongjom War Memorial in Thoubal district for official observances.

According to Nahakpam, the demonstrations are intended to draw attention to the organisation’s demands, with participants expected from various parts of the state. He added that the agitation would continue as the government has yet to respond to key issues raised by the group.

COCOMI has maintained that the ongoing crisis in Manipur is a “proxy conflict” allegedly involving Kuki militant groups, a claim it has repeatedly raised during its campaign. The organisation also expressed concern over the prevailing law and order situation, stating that despite the formation of a popular government with representation from different communities, there has been no visible progress in peace efforts.

The group further noted that while developmental projects have been inaugurated, there has been little advancement in dialogue or conflict resolution. It said the protest along the Imphal–Thoubal route is aimed at conveying public sentiment to political leaders attending the Khongjom Day event.

Nahakpam also condemned an incident in Wangjing, Thoubal district, where a protest during the inauguration of a Block Development Office reportedly led to a confrontation between demonstrators and BJP workers. He said such incidents reflect underlying public dissatisfaction and should not be viewed in isolation.

COCOMI confirmed that a larger mass agitation scheduled for April 25 will proceed as planned. On issues such as alleged narco-terrorism and the movement of cadres from Suspension of Operations (SoO) camps, the organisation said these concerns remain central to its demands.

Regarding an invitation from the Manipur government for talks, Nahakpam said the group received the communication earlier in the day but has not yet taken a decision on whether to participate in the meeting.