The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) on Thursday called upon the government to ensure the maintenance of law and order in the border town of Moreh.
This appeal comes in the wake of a concerning news report that state forces were prevented from taking action against those challenging law enforcement and disturbing law and order in Moreh.
The report even highlights the possibility of state forces withdrawing from Moreh if they are not allowed to exercise their authority in maintaining law and order.
COCOMI coordinator Jeetendra Ningomba addressed the media at their office in Imphal, emphasising the importance of disclosing the names of the leaders responsible for hindering state forces in carrying out their duty. This, he suggests, will allow the public to hold these leaders accountable.
Ningomba also questioned the efficacy of a state government when law enforcement agencies are obstructed from preserving law and order in parts of Manipur, a relatively small state.
He went on to express concerns that Moreh might be perceived as a region belonging to another country.
He also raised questions about why state forces are unable to enter areas like Moreh and Churachandpur, which holds a special place under the Act East Policy.
COCOMI urged the government to take action against those obstructing state forces, echoing the use of tear gas and smoke bombs, as seen during democratic student protests in Imphal, in their efforts to restore peace in Manipur.
