COCOMI announces public boycott of Manipur Governor amid identity row

The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has announced a public boycott of Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, citing his failure to respond to their demands concerning the recent Gwaltabi incident, the controversial restriction on the use of “Manipur” on MST buses during the Shirui Festival.

In a press conference held today, COCOMI convenor Khuraijam Athouba expressed deep resentment over the Governor’s inaction, saying the 48-hour deadline set for an official apology had lapsed without response. “This silence reflects not only administrative negligence but a blatant disregard for the sentiments of the people of Manipur,” Athouba said.

He condemned the decision by the Governor and the administration under Presidential Rule to impose what he termed a “direct assault on the state’s identity,” calling it an unacceptable affront to Manipur’s people. “The refusal to acknowledge and apologize for the insult confirms their disconnect from ground realities,” he added.

COCOMI declared that the Governor would now be boycotted across all public, cultural, and civil platforms. “No individual or organization shall host, invite, or associate with the Governor in any function until a public apology is issued,” Athouba announced.

The group also outlined a roadmap for statewide mass agitation starting tomorrow. The movement will include rallies, torch processions, and sit-ins across all districts, to be carried out through democratic and non-violent means. Protesters will march to Raj Bhavan and respective DC offices to submit memoranda listing their demands.

The demands include:

1) A public apology from the Governor;

2) The resignation of the Chief Secretary, Security Adviser, and Director General of Police;

3) The rejection of the existing administrative committee and its replacement with an independent inquiry panel headed by a retired High Court or Sessions Judge;

4) A public explanation of the Gwaltabi incident.

Clarifying the movement’s intent, Athouba emphasized that it is not against peace but against the erosion of governance and identity. “Manipur is not a negotiable term. It is our name, our soul, our heritage. We shall defend it — united, unwavering, and until justice prevails,” he affirmed.