The meeting convened by Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh to discuss the state’s worsening law and order saw 12 BJP MLAs skipping it, with nine not citing reasons. Despite this, the government maintains its majority. The absences highlight internal dissatisfaction over the handling of the ongoing ethnic conflict.
The meeting endorsed measures, including recommending a review of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) and a military crackdown on militants responsible for the abduction and murder of six individuals in Jiribam district. A resolution called for decisive actions within seven days, including declaring these militants an “unlawful organization” and transferring related cases to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
However, the Committee on Manipur Integrity (Cocomi), a Meitei-based civil society group, expressed dissatisfaction with the resolutions, demanding a broader military crackdown on all Kuki-Zo militants and not just those linked to the Jiribam killings. They urged MLAs to resign if their recommendations, including AFSPA withdrawal and stricter action against militants, are not implemented.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the absenteeism among NDA MLAs, alleging discontent within the alliance. He claimed only 24 MLAs attended the meeting, questioning the authenticity of some signatures recorded as present. The Chief Minister’s office has yet to respond to these allegations.
Cocomi also imposed a 24-hour deadline for the government to align its resolutions with public sentiment, threatening intensified protests if their demands are not met. The group reiterated its demand for an immediate military crackdown and expressed frustration over prolonged consultations despite public outcry since the conflict began.