Manipur: COCOMI demands legal action against CoTU for defying Amit Shah’s directive

The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has urged the Government of India to take legal action against the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) for openly opposing Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s directive to ensure free movement along all National Highways (NH) by March 8.

During a press conference today, COCOMI convenor Khuraijam Athouba expressed strong disapproval of COTU’s stance, stating that the home minister’s decision has been widely welcomed by various sections of society. However, COTU’s outright defiance of the directive has come as a shock to the people of Manipur.

“COTU has rejected the directive, asserting that peace is non-negotiable before their demands are met. By doing so, they are not only challenging the Union Home Minister’s initiative but also violating fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution. We urge the Government of India to take appropriate legal action against such groups,” Athouba stated.

He further emphasized that legal action against those obstructing the peace process would instill confidence among the people, reaffirming that the government's efforts are genuinely aimed at restoring peace in Manipur.

Skepticism Over Amit Shah’s Assurances
Athouba also voiced concerns over the implementation of past assurances made by Amit Shah, noting that many of his previous commitments have remained unfulfilled. Despite this, COCOMI remains hopeful that by March 8, concrete steps will be taken to ensure peace and uphold law and order in the state.

Demand for Arms Recovery from SoO Groups
Addressing the issue of arms recovery, Athouba urged the government to retrieve weapons from armed groups under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, asserting that these groups are key contributors to the ongoing conflict.

“We have seen arms being surrendered in the valley areas in compliance with the Governor’s order. However, it is concerning that SoO groups have not been included in this disarmament process. The recovery of arms from these groups is crucial, as they are the primary instigators of violence,” he stated.

He further alleged that Indian security forces appear to have a discreet alliance with these armed groups, leading to skepticism about the government's commitment to neutralizing their influence. COCOMI insists on the recovery of arms from these hill-based groups, particularly those under SoO, to ensure a comprehensive peace process.

Additionally, COCOMI welcomed the surrender of arms but urged the government to provide assurances that no further attacks would take place following disarmament.