Manipur: Massive COCOMI Rally Hits Imphal Streets Over SoO Agreement
Thousands join COCOMI rally in Imphal to demand the end of the SoO agreement and the safe return of displaced persons in Manipur.
In a powerful display of unity and dissent, a massive crowd descended upon the streets of Imphal for a rally organized by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI). The protesters, representing a diverse cross-section of society from both the hill and valley regions, converged to voice their demands regarding the ongoing instability in the state, specifically calling for the immediate scrapping of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.
A Unified Voice for Peace and Return
The rally was marked by the participation of various community representatives who marched together, signaling a collective desire for a resolution to the crisis. The primary focus of the demonstration was twofold: the termination of the SoO agreement and the urgent, safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their original homes.
As the march progressed through Imphal, participants raised slogans urging the authorities to prioritize the rehabilitation of those forced to flee their residences and to reconsider the existing security frameworks that they believe are hindering peace.
Security Crackdown at Sinai Camp
While the protests unfolded in the city, a significant security operation was carried out in the Kangpokpi district. Joint security forces, comprising the Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, CRPF, and CoBRA, launched a coordinated raid on the Sinai Camp in Khongbal Kuki village.
The camp was a designated SoO site associated with the Kuki National Organisation (KNO), specifically the Kuki National Army (KNA) and the Kuki Liberation Army (KLA). During the operation, security forces cordoned off the area and took full control of the facility.
Impersonators Unmasked
The raid led to the detention of 18 individuals for verification. The subsequent investigation revealed a shocking breach of the agreement: 17 of those detained were allegedly impersonating registered SoO cadres using false identities.
- KNA Impersonators: 8 individuals
- KLA Impersonators: 9 individuals
All 17 individuals were arrested on Saturday after the police confirmed they were using fraudulent identities to pose as registered cadres.
Major Arms Haul and Government Response
The security operation resulted in the seizure of a significant arsenal of weaponry and combat gear from the Sinai Camp, including:
- 24 firearms
- 38 magazines
- Large quantities of ammunition and explosives
- Wireless communication equipment
Following the operation, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh visited the site on Sunday. Accompanied by MLA Thokchom Radheshyam Singh, the Chief Minister interacted with the security personnel stationed at the camp and expressed his appreciation for their efforts in conducting the raid and uncovering the impersonation racket.