The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) condemned the recent killing of Mayanglambam Rishikanta Singh as a heinous crime, attributing the ongoing violence to the Central government’s inability to control armed militant groups in Manipur. During a press conference on January 22, senior member Y.K. Dhiren expressed that the killing occurred despite various efforts by civil society and peace initiatives aimed at restoring calm in the state. He criticized the government for its prolonged inaction, stating that the situation has escalated to intolerable levels.
Dhiren highlighted the deployment of over 60,000 security personnel to address the unrest, yet contended that their presence has not effectively curtailed militant operations, which continue to result in civilian deaths. He pointed out that armed militants allegedly operate freely with advanced weaponry while the government remains passive, stating, “Enough is enough.” COCOMI also questioned the effectiveness of security forces in safeguarding civilians, emphasizing that if they cannot provide protection, their presence is of little use. Dhiren controversially suggested that these forces should withdraw until peace is restored.
The committee reiterated calls for immediate and effective intervention from the Government of India to impose accountability, restore order, and prevent further civilian casualties. At this time, security agencies have not responded to COCOMI’s claims, and investigations into Rishikanta Singh’s murder are ongoing.