Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: The Delhi Meetei Coordinating Committee (DMCC) is demanding an independent investigation into the July 11 arson attack at Kanto Sabal in Manipur’s Imphal West district. At least six Meetei homes went up in flames during a protest march. The committee claims the attackers were Kuki miscreants.
The incident sits in the shadow of major military sites. The homes were destroyed just 50 to 100 metres from the Indian Army 57 Mountain Division headquarters and a Punjab Regiment camp at Leimakhong. DMCC coordinator Biramani Sanasam questioned how the perpetrators managed to flee while surrounded by such heavy military presence. The organization claims video evidence and eyewitnesses confirm the attackers escaped despite the proximity of security forces.
Laitonjam Sanathoi, a former Indian footballer, lost his home in the blaze. The DMCC noted the area is where civilian Kamal Babu vanished last year, a case that remains unsolved. Residents now fear a return to the widespread violence that began on May 3, 2023, when hundreds of Meetei homes were razed.
Tensions flared further when security forces blocked Inner Manipur MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam from accessing the site. The DMCC alleges that security personnel used tear gas and lathi charges against Meetei and Naga villagers who were trying to douse the fire. The committee slammed Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam for remarks they claim justified the attack. "The committee described the incident as a reminder of the large-scale violence that erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023, during which hundreds of Meetei houses were destroyed."
The group demands the resignation of both the Chief Minister and the Home Minister for failing to protect property. They claim military operations favor Kuki-dominated regions while Meetei areas face constant pressure. Furthermore, the DMCC alleges that Kuki militant groups under the Suspension of Operations agreement refuse to disarm, even as Meetei groups comply with the Governor's appeal. The committee is calling for the immediate disarmament of all militant networks and an end to state protection for groups operating under the peace pact.
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