High-Stakes Delhi Talk Addressed Crisis, Narco-Terrorism, and Other Demands. COCOMI categorically rejected dialogue with Suspension of Operations (SoO) groups, labeling them “anti-peace elements.” However, it clarified that innocent Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi-Hmar civilians—legitimate citizens of Manipur—would be engaged “after filtering out disruptive actors.”
TFM Report
In a pivotal development aimed at resolving the protracted crisis in Manipur, a seven-member delegation from the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) held a high-level “exclusive” meeting with senior officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in the national capital on Tuesday.
The two-hour meeting, led by MHA Advisor on Northeast Affairs A.K. Mishra and Joint Director Rajesh Kamble, centered on critical issues plaguing the state, including narco-terrorism, illegal immigration, and civic grievances, said a press release issued by Laikhuram Jayenta, IPR Convenor, COCOMI.
People’s Convention Resolution: A Public Mandate
COCOMI pressed the MHA to formally recognize and escalate the resolution adopted at the People’s Convention on May 3, 2025, which reflects the collective will of Manipur’s citizens. The delegation emphasized the need for the central government to prioritize this mandate in policy decisions, calling it a “non-negotiable foundation” for lasting solutions.
Gwaltabi Issue: MHA Pledges Action
The volatile Gwaltabi issue, a longstanding flashpoint in Manipur, dominated discussions. COCOMI conveyed the “unwavering demands” of local communities, urging immediate governmental intervention. MHA officials assured the delegation that the matter was “under active consideration,” signaling potential steps to address grievances.
Exclusive Engagement with New Delhi
Reiterating its stance from the People’s Convention, COCOMI declared it would engage solely with the Government of India on matters related to the crisis. The committee categorically rejected dialogue with Suspension of Operations (SoO) groups, labelling them “anti-peace elements.” However, it clarified that innocent Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi-Hmar civilians—legitimate citizens of Manipur—would be engaged “after filtering out disruptive actors.”
Narco-Terrorism and Foreign-Funded Armed Groups
In a hard-hitting submission, COCOMI flagged the alarming nexus between narco-terrorism, illegal opium cultivation, and cross-border criminal networks. The delegation accused foreign-based armed groups of exploiting the peace process, alleging that funds from illicit activities have sustained these factions since 2008. “Proceeds from drug trade and forest encroachment are bankrolling violence,” COCOMI stated, urging the MHA to review its engagement with such groups.
Urgent Interventions: Protecting Civilians and Sacred Sites
The delegation outlined pressing humanitarian concerns, including restricted movement, farmers’ rights violations, and threats to religious sites. Key demands included:
– Immediate compensation for agricultural losses.
– Justice for missing persons.
– Resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
– Protection of sacred spaces from encroachment.
A Shared Pledge for Peace
COCOMI reaffirmed its commitment to peace, vowing cooperation with “genuine efforts” to restore normalcy. It urged the central government to act decisively against entities undermining stability. Both sides agreed to sustain dialogue, with Mishra emphasizing, “The road to peace is collaborative, and Manipur’s concerns are India’s concerns.”