COCOMI Condemns Litan Violence, Slams Security Forces for “Inaction”

— Tangkhul Naga Long Declares Emergency in Sharkaphung/Sikibung Kha village After Rising Communal Tension

IMPHAL, Feb 10: The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has expressed grave concern over the recent incidents of arson and burning that erupted between Tangkhul and Kuki groups in Litan village of Ukhrul district since February 7, 2026, calling the violence part of a larger “engineered crisis” in Manipur.

In a press release issued on February 10, COCOMI stated that the incidents were neither isolated nor accidental, but a tragic manifestation of a long-standing crisis allegedly driven by proxy politics and deliberate institutional negligence.

The organisation alleged that while the people of Manipur continue to suffer, certain forces in New Delhi were “celebrating the harvest” of two decades of so-called investment, claiming that the current situation is the predictable outcome of policies such as the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, which it described as an instrument of control and long-term destabilisation rather than peace.

COCOMI said the violence in Litan must be viewed in a broader context of deep state politics that thrives on division, fragmentation, and internal strife among indigenous communities. It pointed to widespread destruction, displaced families, and social breakdown across the state as the bitter consequences of such policies.

Strongly condemning the role of the Indian security forces, COCOMI accused them of remaining “silent spectators” while houses were set ablaze in broad daylight. It claimed that no credible measures were taken to stop the violence, protect civilians, or prevent destruction of property, raising serious questions about complicity and selective enforcement.

The body reiterated that both the State and Central governments must be held accountable for what has happened and continues to happen in Manipur, asserting that the pattern of narrative management, administrative response, and operational conduct remains disturbingly unchanged.

Warning that the situation in Litan carries a serious risk of escalation and spillover into other hill areas, COCOMI said failure to contain the violence could trigger a wider cycle of retaliation and communal polarisation across the region.

COCOMI also reaffirmed the resolutions adopted at the massive public rally held on January 31, 2026, which, it said, had identified and condemned a “proxy war” allegedly being waged against the people of Manipur. The organisation claimed that the developments in Ukhrul district only validate those resolutions.

Calling for immediate, transparent, and impartial action, COCOMI urged the authorities to stop the violence, protect civilians, and hold those responsible accountable, both on the ground and within the chain of command. It also appealed to the people of Manipur to remain vigilant against what it termed external manipulation and divisive designs.

The press release was issued by Ph. Shyamchand, Convenor, IPR Sub-Committee, COCOMI.

Meanwhile, the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) on Tuesday announced an emergency in Sharkaphung/Sikibung Kha village following reports of repeated violent incidents involving members of the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities.

According to TNL, the situation has led to fear and disruption of normal life in the area. The organisation said the move was aimed at preventing further escalation and helping restore peace and public order.

The declaration was signed by TNL President Sword Vashum and Secretary Mayonsing Ahum.