CorCom alleged that the Prime Minister’s visit as an attempt to exploit ethnic divisions and escalate tensions rather than promote peace and reconciliation.
TFM Desk
Security measures have been intensified across Manipur even as hectic preparations are on for the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to the state on September 13. Meanwhile, Coordination Committee (CorCom), an umbrella group representing six proscribed armed groups in Manipur, has announced a state-wide boycott and shutdown in response to Modi’s visit.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Committee, CorCom alleged that the Prime Minister’s visit as an attempt to exploit ethnic divisions and escalate tensions rather than promote peace and reconciliation. The group accused the central government of fostering enmity between communities by utilizing “proxy-war elements” and failing to address the underlying issues of the ongoing conflict.
Since violence erupted on May 3, 2023, over 250 people have been killed, and nearly 60,000 displaced, primarily due to clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities.
CorCom has called for a total shutdown from 1 a.m. on September 13 until the Prime Minister departs, exempting essential services such as medical facilities, fire services, water supply, and religious rituals. The group emphasized that the shutdown is a collective show of protest against the government’s handling of the crisis and its perceived indifference to the suffering of the people.
Political Reactions
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from various political groups. The Congress party criticized the Prime Minister’s brief three-hour visit, calling it an “insult” to the people of Manipur who have been awaiting attention for nearly 29 months. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned the efficacy of such a short visit in addressing the state’s complex issues.
In contrast, some Kuki-Zo organizations have expressed support for the visit, describing it as “rare and historic.” They anticipate announcements related to rehabilitation and resettlement of displaced persons, although sources indicate that the Prime Minister may not visit relief camps directly due to time and security constraints.
Ahead of the visit, security measures have been intensified across the state. Reports indicate that four underground cadres have been arrested in connection with the planned shutdown. Additionally, the United Naga Council (UNC) has decided to temporarily suspend its trade embargo along National Highways in Naga-dominated areas, which had been causing disruptions and stranding trucks.
The planned boycott and shutdown by CorCom highlight the deep-seated grievances and mistrust between the central government and various communities in Manipur. While the Prime Minister’s visit aims to address the ongoing crisis, the polarized reactions underscore the challenges in achieving lasting peace and reconciliation in the region.