IMPHAL, Feb 22: Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has requested an extension of time for the surrender of illegal arms in the state, following a recent appeal by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.

The committee, in a press statement, criticized the government’s security forces for their “incompetence” in protecting vulnerable villages during the peak of the crisis, which led local youth to take up arms and loot weapons. They emphasized that the terror threat persists, particularly due to the continued presence of armed Chin-Kuki narco-terrorist groups operating in the hill areas under the controversial Suspension of Operation (SoO) pact with the central government.

COCOMI argued that the seven-day timeframe given for the arms surrender was too short for meaningful engagement with the local community and stakeholders, urging an extension of the deadline. They also accused central security forces of violating the Governor’s instructions, claiming their “aggressive stance” towards local youth has worsened tensions and raised concerns among local groups, including the Ima Meira Paibis. The committee stressed that this approach has led to growing mistrust in the community.

Additionally, COCOMI urged the Governor to engage with local youth leaders to ensure a cooperative approach in the arms recovery process, without using force, and to avoid legal action against volunteers defending their communities. They also called for the inclusion of smuggled illegal arms used by Kuki armed groups under the SoO agreement in the arms confiscation process.

Highlighting the ongoing violence and illegal activities by foreign-origin armed narco-terrorist groups like the Kuki National Organization (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF), COCOMI warned that the Government of India must not legitimize these groups under the guise of peace talks. They urged the central government to prioritize national security, the rule of law, and the protection of indigenous communities in any future engagement.

COCOMI also demanded that all armed Kuki militant camps under the Suspension of Operation in the hill areas be relocated to ensure peace and stability. They called for a concrete, foolproof plan from the government to secure villages, ensure safety for villagers and volunteers, and guarantee that no further attacks will take place.