CFW condemns Phubala attack, demands probe
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 20 2025: Strongly condemning the attack on farmers in Phubala area on Thursday and questioning the role of central security forces stationed close to the incident site, COCOMI Farmers' Wing has demanded an immediate enquiry into the incident.

Speaking to the media at COCOMI's Lamphelpat office on Friday, convenor AB Elangbam expressed concern over repeated attacks on farmers by armed Kuki militants.

"Thursday's incident was not the first of its kind and the authorities must respond with appropriate actions," he said, while demanding the central security forces to place in the public domain how the attack occurred in their presence.

CFW condemns Phubala attack, demands probe

AB Elangbam questioned whether farmers were paying the price for placing their trust in central forces, which had earlier assured protection to those engaged in agricultural activities.

Noting out that farmers no more feel secure working in their own fields, he called on the authorities to clearly announce the timing and extent of security coverage so that farmers can focus on their work without fear and confusion.

He further stated that farmer N Biren, who was injured in the attack, had been working within the high canal range when Kuki militants approached beyond the canal and opened fire from close range.

The incident reportedly occurred just 30 to 40 metres from a camp of the 37th Battalion SSB, whose personnel allegedly did not responded befittingly but asked the farmers to run for safety.

"The question now is whether the central forces are taking side with the attackers," said the convenor and reiterated COCOMI's strong condemnation of the attack while demanding an official explanation from the security forces, along with a thorough enquiry and swift action by the competent authorities.

He also criticised the lack of response from district authorities, stating that the COCOMI Farmers' Wing had repeatedly urged DCs and SPs concerned to hold meetings with farmers and farmers' organisations regarding security arrangements, but no such steps have been taken so far.

"The government has not yet come up with any concrete solution to the problems faced by farmers," he rued, demanding the authorities to convene an immediate joint meeting with farmers to prevent further attacks and ensure farmers have safe access to their farmlands.