Imphal: Thirteen civil society organisations in Manipur has submitted a memorandum to the office of the governor on the Urgent Need for Security Measures and Resolution of Ongoing Conflict in the state.
The governor was out of Manipur.
The organisations were IPAK, IPSA, ACOAM LUP, PANDM, ERDO, LOYALUP, KSA, KANGLAMEI, KIL, CLK, MIKL, AKSHIL and SWA.
They said they have been actively engaged in the ongoing turmoil since May 3, 2023.
They submitted the memorandum seeking immediate intervention from the governor and the chief minister ‘to address critical issues that affect the lives and safety of the citizens of Manipur’.
The highlighted Situation at Hand.
Aggression by Armed Kuki Militants The people of Manipur are gravely affected by the aggression from Chin-Kuki militants, designated by many as narco-terrorists. Despite these groups being under a Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the Government of India since 2008, recent escalations—including coordinated attacks during the harvest season—have severely undermined public trust in current security measures.
Unsecured National Highways The indefinite blockades on national highways, which serve as a critical lifeline for 3.5 million people, continue to impact access to essential goods. Despite the pressing need for reliable security along these highways, there has been little action from state and central authorities to ensure their safe passage.
Escalating Militant Attacks and Civilian Casualties
Armed Kuki militants are frequently launching attacks in vulnerable areas, often at times and places of their choosing, resulting in numerous civilian casualties. Recent incidents include the tragic killing of S. Sophia, a mother of three, while she worked in a field in Bishnupur District, and the shooting of another farmer, Kanshok Horam, in Sanasabi. These incidents highlight a distressing failure in security protocols, as assailants often escape unchallenged despite the presence of central forces.
Violence in Jiribam District and Kidnapping of Villagers
On November 11, 2024, armed Kuki militants attacked the Meitei village of Jakuradhor in Jiribam District, killing two Meitei villagers, injuring CRPF personnel, and burning down homes. Six villagers, including three women and three children, were taken hostage. To date, their whereabouts remain unknown, sparking deep concern within the community. Immediate efforts are needed to rescue these hostages and address the security gaps that allowed this attack.
Growing Distrust in Security Forces The people of Manipur are losing confidence in the security establishment, even with a combined force of over 95,000 state and central personnel deployed. Conflicting actions between state forces and central units such as the Assam Rifles have compounded the problem, with multiple reports of bias and partiality. Disturbing allegations, including a recent interview with two Meitei civilians reporting torture by Assam Rifles have intensified distrust in this force, which is perceived as biased toward Kuki militants. The widespread perception that the Assam Rifles favor foreign-origin militants has further inflamed tensions and led to the rise of local militia groups.
Withdrawal from National Political Parties in Manipur
The people of Manipur are increasingly prepared to withdraw their support from national political parties, frustrated by what they see as a lack of genuine commitment to the state’s security and welfare. The current crisis, marked by ethnic violence, unchecked militant activity, and deteriorating law and order, has exposed deep gaps in the commitment of national political entities to the safety and welfare of Manipur’s people. For months, residents have suffered amid armed immigrant’s militant aggression, forced blockades, and escalating attacks, all of which continue to threaten the livelihood and security of everyday citizens. Despite repeated pleas from the public, many feel that national parties have failed to respond effectively, with interventions often perceived as inadequate, biased, or misaligned with local needs. Many feel national parties have prioritized power over the needs of Manipur’s citizens. This growing disillusionment is driving people away from affiliating to any national political parties in the state.
“In light of the ongoing crisis, we have imposed a 24-hour shutdown to protest the inadequate response from both state and central governments in protecting lives and property.”
The civil organisations made their Urgent Requests. They appealed to your office to promptly take actions to address urgent issues.
“Take immediate action to locate and rescue the six hostages abducted by armed Kuki militants in Jiribam District.”
“Implement legal and security measures to clear and safeguard national highways, ensuring unhindered access for the people of Manipur.”
“Designate a no-entry zone of at least one hill range adjacent to the paddy fields near the foothills to prevent further attacks on farmers.”
“Improve coordination among all security forces to streamline command, ensuring a unified and effective response in sensitive areas.”
“Enforce measures to confine and contain all Armed Kuki Militants under the Suspension of Operations (So0) pact within their designated camps. Abrogate the Suspension of Operations (So0) pact with foreign-origin armed Kuki militants namely ZRA, KNO and KRA immediately, in alignment with the decision made by the Government of Manipur. Additionally, take strict action against any violations of the ground rules to ensure compliance and maintain security in the region.”
“Reform the Approach of Assam Rifles: Address the allegations of bias within the Assam Rifles. A reform in their approach is crucial to prevent further escalation and to rebuild trust among the local communities.”
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