Amid escalating ethnic violence, COCOMI has echoed allegations made by NSCN(I-M) against government agencies, claiming that arms and supplies meant for security forces are being diverted to Kuki strongholds. The Manipur Police, however, has strongly denied these accusations.
BY PC Bureau
In a press release on Sunday, COCOMI claimed to have uncovered evidence of a “discreet and strategic nexus” that it says has fueled violence in the region. The organization flagged allegations similar to those raised by the NSCN(I-M), including accusations against Urukhal SP Maladi Kartik of supplying arms to Kuki militants.
The COCOMI allegations reflect its rowing proximity NSCN(IM) and may see a fresh polarisation in Manipur where ethnic clashes between Meities and Kuki-zo communities have raged on for more than 18 months.
COCOMI specifically referred to an incident on December 18, 2024, where supplies intended for a CRPF camp were allegedly diverted to Molhang Kuki Village, a known stronghold of Kuki militants. The supplies, transported in two Shaktiman trucks, were reportedly rerouted under the guise of legitimate operations.
On 11/1/25 it was found that some media outlets were publishing a news item claiming that Ukhrul SP was aiding Kuki militants, which was based on a press release from NSCN IM. The news item and the Press release are blatantly false.
Based on a request from the BSF and Kangpokpi… pic.twitter.com/eJ2bjobLek
— Manipur Police (@manipur_police) January 12, 2025
“This unholy alliance has perpetuated violence, displaced thousands, and destabilized the socio-political fabric of Manipur,” stated COCOMI in its release. The group argued that the ongoing ethnic conflict is, in reality, a “state-driven proxy war” aimed at advancing political and territorial objectives.
The accusations extend beyond logistical support, with COCOMI claiming collaboration between security agencies and militants involves “intelligence sharing and selective inaction during critical operations.” These claims align with a January 11 press release by NSCN(I-M) that accused the Ukhrul SP of aiding Kuki militants.
COCOMI’s Media Coordinator, Yumkhaibam Surjitkumar Khuman, has demanded responses from the Home Ministry, Security Advisor, and Director General of Police (DGP) regarding the authorization and oversight of such operations. The organization has called for an independent inquiry into the role of security agencies in the conflict.
Meanwhile, Manipur Police has dismissed similar allegations made by NSCN(I-M) as “false.” In a statement, they clarified that police escorts were provided on December 12 and 19 at the request of the BSF and Kangpokpi District Police to transport laborers and materials for constructing security barracks in Molhang Kuki Village.
The NSCN(I-M) had previously accused SP Kartik of facilitating arms deliveries to Kuki militants in December 2024, exacerbating the ethnic violence. While the Kuki-Zo groups have claimed that the central government supports the Meitei community, these fresh allegations suggest a deepening distrust among all sides.
The ethnic conflict in Manipur continues to escalate, with accusations and counter-accusations fueling tensions. The alleged cooperation between security forces and militant groups, according to COCOMI, has allowed armed factions to “pursue disruptive agendas under the guise of ethnic struggle,” further complicating efforts for peace in the region.
