The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has raised concerns over the stalled peace talks between the Kuki-Zo representatives and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), citing demands for a separate administration as a major obstacle to progress. Speaking to the media, COCOMI spokesperson Khuraijam Athouba condemned the preconditions set by Kuki-Zo leaders during the negotiations. “The insistence on administrative separation before addressing peace restoration reveals an intent to prolong unrest rather than achieve meaningful political progress,” Athouba stated.
The peace talks have hit an impasse, with the central government emphasizing the need to restore peace as a precursor to political dialogue. However, Kuki-Zo representatives have remained steadfast in their demand for administrative autonomy as a prerequisite. Similar demands were reiterated during a recent meeting between the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) and the newly appointed Governor in Churachandpur. Athouba called on the Indian government to adopt a firm stance against groups allegedly using violence to further their political agenda. “The government is taking excessive time trying to convince those who continue to propose unreasonable and divisive measures,” he said.
Addressing the ongoing ethnic violence, Athouba asserted that the Meitei community has no intention or purpose to perpetuate the conflict. He reiterated COCOMI’s commitment to safeguarding Manipur’s territorial integrity and ensuring the return of peace to the state. The organization also urged the central government to address urgent humanitarian issues in the region. These include reopening blocked national highways, facilitating the safe return of displaced individuals, and implementing a comprehensive disarmament plan to curb violence perpetrated by armed civilians.
