Manipur Deadlock: Families Refuse Bodies Over Security Demands

Imphal: Manipur officials and the Joint Action Committee (JAC) hit a wall on October 27. A three-hour meeting at the Chief Minister Secretariat failed to resolve the standoff over the October 19 killings in Khongbal Sunurok. The committee now refuses to claim the bodies of Lairenlakpam Inaobi Meitei, Arubam Ronil Singh, and Kshetrimayum Sushil Singh. Their families demand action first.

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam led the state side. They met with a delegation headed by convenor K. Ibungobi Meitei. The government promised to launch operations to clear bunkers and illegal roads allegedly built by Kuki militants. They also pledged to deploy India Reserve Battalion personnel to the outskirts within three days and confirmed a new security post site at Nongshum.

The investigation into the three deaths continues with multiple suspects already in custody. Despite these pledges, the JAC remains skeptical. Co-convenor Laishram Amarjit said, "several key issues remained unresolved and the committee would monitor the implementation of the government assurances before reaching any formal agreement."

Talks also touched on the tripartite Suspension of Operations agreement. State officials clarified that the government did not extend the pact on its own. They rejected demands to move the Manipur People Army camp from Nongshum, citing legal constraints tied to an existing deal with the Pambei-led United National Liberation Front. The protest agitation continues.