Imphal: The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), a key umbrella body representing Meitei civil society groups, has decided to temporarily suspend its ongoing protests following severe weather and flood-like conditions across Manipur.
The protests were in response to an incident on May 20, where security personnel allegedly forced government staff to cover the word “Manipur” on the windshield of a state-run bus carrying journalists near the Gwaltabi checkpost.
The journalists were en route to cover the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district.
COCOMI had been demanding a public apology from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and the immediate resignations of the state’s Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and Security Advisor for their alleged role or inaction in the incident.
Announcing the suspension of agitation, COCOMI convenor Khuraijam Athouba said the decision was taken in consideration of the ongoing natural crisis to avoid further hardship for the public.
“We are putting the protests on hold temporarily due to the worsening flood-like situation. However, the agitation will resume once weather conditions improve and after reviewing the government’s response to our demands in consultation with civil society leaders and the general public,” Athouba said in a statement.
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In recent days, the Imphal Valley, largely dominated by the Meitei community, has witnessed widespread demonstrations and public outrage over what protestors see as an affront to Manipur’s identity and integrity.
COCOMI emphasised that the issue remains unresolved and reaffirmed its commitment to hold the authorities accountable, once conditions allow for renewed public mobilisation.
