IMPHAL, Nov 18: Tensions escalated in Manipur as protestors led by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) locked several central government offices on Monday, condemning the central government’s inaction in addressing the ongoing crisis. COCOMI had issued a 24-hour ultimatum on November 16 to both the central and state governments, demanding a military crackdown on armed ‘Kuki Zo’ militants operating under suspension of operation agreements.

Following the failure of the government to act, protestors, including student representatives from COCOMI, stormed and locked key offices, which included the Election Commission of India (ECI) office in Lamphel, the Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD) office at Takyel, and the GST Bhavan at Thambalkhong. This action follows repeated warnings by COCOMI that such protests would commence if their demands remained unaddressed.

In addition to the office lock-ins, COCOMI has maintained its indefinite sit-in protest at Ima Market, which began on November 16, condemning the government’s inability to protect lives and property amidst ongoing violence. The protestors have specifically highlighted the recent killings of innocent women and children, allegedly by armed Kuki militants, as a major flashpoint for their anger. They are demanding justice for the victims, calling the acts “cold-blooded murders” and criticizing the government’s failure to ensure accountability or safety.