The insurgent coalition accuses Delhi of neglecting Manipur’s crises and urges a total shutdown during Modi’s tour, seen as critical for peace efforts. Formed in 2011, CorCom includes UNLF and PLA. With a history of shutdowns, its boycott call poses a major challenge to Delhi’s outreach in Manipur.
BY PC Bureau
September 10, 2025 — The Coordination Committee (CorCom), a coalition of banned insurgent groups in Manipur, has called for a boycott of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the state, further heightening tensions in a region already fraught with ethnic violence and political unrest.
The announcement, issued through local media channels, urged citizens to observe a complete shutdown during the visit and to refrain from participating in any official events linked to the Prime Minister’s tour. While the government has yet to disclose the date or agenda of Modi’s trip, it is believed to be part of a broader outreach to address Manipur’s volatile situation.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Committee, CorCom alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit was not intended to restore peace, harmony, or development in Manipur, but rather to deepen divisions by exploiting proxy-war elements. The group announced a total shutdown beginning at 1 a.m. on September 13 and lasting until the Prime Minister’s departure, while exempting essential services such as medical care, fire and water supply, and religious activities.
CorCom emphasized that since the eruption of violence on May 3, 2023, Manipur has witnessed one of its worst ethnic crises, with nearly 250 lives lost and close to 60,000 people displaced. The unrest, the group noted, was sparked by an All Tribal Students’ Union of Manipur (ATSUM) rally against a High Court directive on Scheduled Tribe status for the Meitei community, which triggered counter-protests and violent clashes between the Meitei and tribal groups, particularly the Kukis.
The coalition accused the central government of indifference, pointing to continued highway blockades, restrictions, and the failure to resettle internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Imphal, Moreh, and Churachandpur. It also condemned rising violence against women and children, citing reports of atrocities—including the public parading of Kuki women—and alleged that extremist groups were worsening the crisis.
CorCom further highlighted political instability, referencing the resignation of the Chief Minister, the continued imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), and unfulfilled promises of development. Unless the government initiates inclusive and sincere dialogue that addresses the grievances of all communities, the group warned, Manipur risks sliding into deeper instability and intensified ethnic strife.
Security Measures Intensified
Local authorities have moved swiftly in response. Manipur Police have increased patrols in vulnerable districts, while the central government is preparing to deploy additional paramilitary forces. “We are monitoring the situation closely and will take all necessary steps to maintain peace,” a senior police official said on condition of anonymity.
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The boycott call has drawn divided responses. Some community groups echoed CorCom’s grievances, citing stalled peace talks, economic hardship, and political alienation. Others, however, condemned the move, warning that boycotts and shutdowns risk escalating tensions. “Dialogue, not boycotts, is the way forward,” said community leader Laishram Devi in Imphal.
The Prime Minister’s visit is widely viewed as a critical opportunity to address Manipur’s layered crises, including deadly clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities that have displaced thousands. Analysts suggest Modi may use the trip to announce new development projects and meet state leaders in a bid to ease the unrest.
Background on CorCom
Formed in 2011, CorCom is an umbrella coalition of several outlawed insurgent groups, including the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The body has a history of enforcing shutdowns and resisting central policies, often invoking demands for sovereignty and greater regional autonomy.
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As the state braces for Modi’s arrival, Manipur remains divided—some residents pin their hopes on constructive dialogue, while others brace for further turmoil. The central and state governments are expected to respond formally to CorCom’s boycott call in the coming days.
