May 17, 2026 (TBL): Expressing disappointment over the government’s slow response and its failure to secure the release of several hostages allegedly held by some groups, COCOMI (the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity) Convenor Y.K. Dhiren raised questions on whether the Government of India is part of a larger design.
“India claims to be a major military power globally, yet it has not made any effort to rescue the civilians kept as hostages by terrorists for many days now. Not even their condition is known. This is shocking,” stated COCOMI Convenor Dhiren during a public meeting held at Thokchom Community Hall in Thoubal district, organised jointly by COCOMI, Thokchom Apunba Lamjing Meira Lup, Thokchom Youth Dynamic Association, and Thokchom Youths and Students Development Organisation.
He alleged that a strategy is underway to destroy Manipur by pitting the Meitei, Naga, and Kuki communities against each other.
“A proxy army is being used now; it is undeniable. But the Government of India’s silence, despite the public outcry, clearly shows an intent to eliminate Manipur. On top of that, when people rise against this proxy war, attempts are being made to create confusion and sabotage the movement. We must think critically and unite to face these challenges. We need to identify who the real enemy is and fight accordingly,” he added.
Khstrimayum Romesh, a member of COCOMI’s Core Committee, and KC Romeo, President of Mapi Council, also addressed the gathering.
Protesters demanded answers to seven questions from the Manipur Government, a crackdown on Kuki militants, and clarity on whether the Government of India has a design to eliminate the indigenous people.
