The Coordination Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) on Wednesday strongly condemned an incident of armed firing and bombing that occurred at Torbung in Bishnupur district on Tuesday evening, alleging that the attack terrorised civilians and violated constitutional guarantees. According to COCOMI, the incident took place around 8.30 pm on December 16, when armed assailants, suspected to be affiliated with Kuki militant elements, allegedly opened indiscriminate fire and used explosives in civilian areas, triggering panic among residents and posing a serious threat to public safety.
In a statement, COCOMI said such acts amount to a direct violation of the Right to Life and Personal Liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution, while also undermining public order and social harmony. The organisation asserted that violent intimidation strikes at the foundations of constitutional governance and democratic norms. COCOMI also expressed strong objection to an alleged public statement by Kuki-Zo Council leader Ginza Vualzong, accusing him of justifying and rationalising the attack. The organisation said such remarks were inflammatory in nature and could provoke further unrest.
“Public endorsement or moral justification of armed violence threatens public safety, emboldens militant actors and may amount to criminal incitement and abetment under Indian law,” the statement said. Highlighting relevant legal provisions, COCOMI pointed to sections of the Indian Penal Code, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Arms Act, and the Explosive Substances Act, stating that these laws exist to protect citizens, maintain public order and counter unlawful armed violence.
The organisation voiced concern over what it described as the recurrence of armed attacks and a perception of impunity in certain areas, alleging selective enforcement of law that has eroded public confidence in the justice system. COCOMI demanded immediate registration of FIRs in the case, transfer of the investigation to a senior-level or special investigation team, legal action against individuals allegedly inciting or justifying violence, and enhanced security deployment in vulnerable areas including Torbung, Waikhurok, Kangvai and Torbung Bangla.
It also sought a time-bound action taken report to ensure transparency and accountability. COCOMI reiterated that failure to act decisively against both violence and its public justification could embolden further attacks and deepen alienation among affected communities. The organisation said it remains committed to peace, constitutional governance and protection of human rights in Manipur.
