IMPHAL, June 20: The Farmers’ Wing of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has strongly criticised both the state government and central security forces over their continued failure to protect farmers from repeated attacks by armed Kuki militants. Despite multiple assurances, the committee claims that cultivators remain vulnerable and uncertain about their safety in the fields.
Addressing the media, the Convenor of COCOMI’s Farmers’ Wing questioned the credibility and accountability of government agencies and security personnel. “When will the farmers be allowed to work in their fields without fear?” he asked, demanding that authorities issue specific and transparent timings for agricultural activity in conflict-affected areas.
The convenor expressed frustration at the lack of clear communication and security planning from the government. “The government has failed to provide clear instructions or guarantee full-time protection for farmers. As a result, farmers remain confused and hesitant about when it is safe to work in their fields,” he stated.
The Farmers’ Wing condemned the June 19 firing incident at Pubala High Canal, during which a local farmer was shot and injured while working in his paddy field. According to the convenor, armed Kuki militants fired five to six rounds at close range, even though central security personnel were present nearby.
“The most shocking part,” he added, “is that instead of protecting the farmers, the central forces told them to run. This behaviour raises serious doubts about the neutrality of the security forces and indicates possible collusion with the Kuki militants.”
In light of these developments, COCOMI’s Farmers’ Wing has demanded an immediate explanation from the concerned authorities and a thorough investigation into the incident. The committee revealed that they had previously requested a coordination meeting involving the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, civil society organisations, and farmer representatives. However, no such meeting has been held so far.
The convenor warned that the prolonged delay in holding such discussions is endangering the lives and livelihoods of thousands of farmers across Manipur. He urged district authorities to immediately convene a joint meeting to create a practical roadmap that ensures safety for farmers and allows them to resume cultivation without fear.
“We want a structured dialogue and immediate response. Farming cannot wait, and farmers cannot continue living in fear,” he said.
The Farmers’ Wing reiterated its stance that failure to act decisively would not only harm the agricultural backbone of the state but also escalate the existing crisis further.
