Step down: COCOMI writes to SA, DGP
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 07 2024: The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has written to both Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh and DGP Rajiv Singh to step down from their respective posts.

In a letter addressed to the Security Advisor who is also the Chairman of the Unified Command, the COCOMI expressed deep dissatisfaction with Kuldiep Singh's handling of the ongoing security crisis in the State.

"As the Security Advisor and Chairman of the Unified Command overseeing all armed forces deployed in Manipur, your inaction has allowed the situation to deteriorate further, and we no longer have confidence in your leadership", the COCOMI said.

"The irregularities in your statements and your failure to coordinate a cohesive and effective response from the armed forces further demonstrate your ina- bility to fulfil the duties of your office", the COCOMI wrote to the Security Advisor.

In another letter addressed to DGP Rajiv Singh, the COCOMI asserted that the people of Manipur have lost faith in his ability to address the security concerns effectively.

"As the head of security in the State, we believe that your understanding of the situation in Manipur has fallen short of what is required to protect the people", it said.

It pointed out that the relentless attacks carried out by immigrant armed Chin-Kuki narco-terrorist groups from the occupied hill territories of Manipur, including drone bombings and aerial assaults, have left the population vulnerable and in constant fear.

Both the letters underscored that a change of leadership is necessary for the security and well-being of the State's indigenous population.

Meanwhile, a day after declaring a public emergency, the COCOMI has issued measures to be observed by the people 'strictly' during emergency hours.

COCOMI, in a statement, urged the people to take utmost caution to protect themselves and prepare for any adversaries as both the Centre and the State Government have 'failed to protect the people of Manipur' .

The committee also served a three day ultimatum to the Central forces to take visible action against Kuki militants.

"If no action is taken, they (the Central force) must leave the State or confine themselves to their camps.

Their mere presence without action is now seen as a direct threat to public safety," COCOMI said.

The committee urged women's groups and local clubs to stop movement of Central armed forces within civilian areas and border zones if no progress is seen within three days.

It also appealed to all youth forces to remain alert during emergency hours.

"State security forces are called upon to protect the citizens of Manipur.

If Central forces obstruct their duty, they are urged to join the people's movement for justice and security," COCOMI said.

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