Imphal, April 26: A rally organized by the Manipur Integrity Coordination Committee (Kokomi) turned violent on Saturday as certain factions of the crowd expressed their anger against the organization. During the unrest, a member of Kokomi’s student wing was injured.
The rally was called to present several questions to the Manipur government. Protesters marched towards the Chief Minister’s residence from various locations. Heavy deployment of state and central security forces was observed at major intersections, with barricades set up to control the crowd.
Kokomi leaders initiated the march from their office in Lamphill, proceeding through Nagamapal and Khwairamband Keithel (women’s market), where several female vendors joined the rally. The procession aimed for the Kangla western gate but was halted by security forces.
Later, a delegation of Kokomi officials submitted a memorandum outlining their demands. Previously, Kokomi had declined the government’s invitation for talks, stating that discussions were necessary among its constituent bodies and central committee.
Tensions escalated when a large number of women and youth criticized Kokomi for not engaging in dialogue with the government. They alleged that merely submitting a memorandum was insufficient and accused the organization of misleading the public.
Shortly after, an angry crowd stormed the Kokomi office in Lamphill, prompting security forces to disperse them using tear gas and stun grenades.
In a separate incident at Khwairamband Keithel, a member of the Kokomi student wing was attacked by the crowd. Security personnel intervened, using tear gas and stun grenades to rescue the injured individual, leading to further clashes.
Protesters blocked roads by burning tires and using slingshots, while security forces responded with additional tear gas and stun grenades. The situation remained tense, and protests continued as this report was being written.
Speaking to the media, Kokomi spokesperson Shanta Nahakpam stated that the rally aimed to demand answers from the government on several issues, including the killings of civilians since May 3, 2023, the Tronglaobi incident that resulted in the deaths of two minors, and subsequent CRPF firing incidents.
She mentioned that Kokomi submitted a memorandum with seven key demands, including the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons (IDPs), a judicial inquiry into the CRPF firing, and action against drug-related terrorism.
Shanta further expressed hope for a clear and concrete response from the government within a few days. She warned that if the government fails to respond, Kokomi may escalate its democratic movements.
She also urged the government to resolve these issues before the upcoming census or NRC process, ensuring displaced individuals can return to their homes as soon as possible.
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Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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