COCOMI Condemns Armed Firing and Bombing at Torbung, Calls for Immediate Action and Accountability
The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) strongly condemns the armed firing and bombing that took place at Torbung, Bishnupur District, on the evening of 16 December 2025 at around 8:30 PM. The attack terrorised innocent civilians and constituted a grave violation of fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India.
According to credible reports, armed individuals suspected to be affiliated with Kuki militant elements carried out indiscriminate firing and explosive attacks in civilian areas, causing widespread fear, endangering lives, and posing a serious threat to the safety and security of local communities.
Violation of Fundamental Rights and Constitutional Order
COCOMI emphasises that such acts of violence directly contravene the Constitution of India, particularly the Right to Life and Personal Liberty under Article 21. These actions strike at the foundation of constitutional governance and democratic order.
Violent intimidation undermines the rule of law, disrupts public order as protected under Article 19, and severely threatens social harmony.
Public Justification of Violence by Kuki-Zo Council Leadership
COCOMI expresses grave concern over a public statement issued by Mr. Ginza Vualzong, a leader of the Kuki-Zo Council, which allegedly:
- Justified and rationalised the armed attack
- Put forward inflammatory allegations
- Contained statements likely to provoke further unrest and incite violence
COCOMI views any public defence or moral endorsement of armed violence as an affront to constitutional values and democratic norms. Such statements endanger public safety, embolden armed actors, and may constitute criminal incitement and abetment under Indian law.
Legal Framework and Grounds for Action
COCOMI draws attention to relevant provisions under Indian law, including but not limited to:
- Indian Penal Code, 1860 – criminal conspiracy, waging war against the State, promoting enmity, public mischief, abetment, attempt to murder, and use of dangerous weapons
- Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 – unlawful and terrorist acts, conspiracy, and abetment
- Arms Act, 1959 – illegal possession and use of firearms
- Explosive Substances Act, 1908 – causing explosions endangering life and property
These legal provisions reflect India’s constitutional commitment to protect citizens, uphold public order, and counter unlawful armed violence.
Concern Over Recurrence and Perception of Impunity
COCOMI reiterates its deep concern over the recurring incidents of armed violence and the growing perception of impunity, noting that:
- Armed groups continue to operate with apparent impunity in Churachandpur areas
- Leaders who publicly justify violence face no visible deterrence
- There is a perception of selective enforcement, undermining public confidence in the rule of law and constitutional justice
COCOMI’s Demands
In the interest of safeguarding lives, protecting constitutional democracy, and restoring public trust, COCOMI demands:
- Immediate registration of FIRs under relevant legal provisions
- Transfer of investigation to a senior-level or special investigation team due to the gravity and sensitivity of the case
- Legal action against all forms of public incitement and justification of terror, irrespective of identity or affiliation
- Immediate security reinforcement and area domination in vulnerable locations, including Torbung, Waikhurok, Kangvai, and Torbung Bangla
- A time-bound Action Taken Report to ensure transparency, accountability, and public confidence in law enforcement
Upholding Constitutional Values
COCOMI underscores that violent attacks and their public rationalisation not only violate penal statutes but also erode constitutional ethos and democratic peace. Failure to act decisively will embolden further aggression and deepen alienation among affected communities.
The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) remains committed to promoting peace, constitutional governance, and the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all people of Manipur.
Laikhuram Jayenta
Convenor, Media and Publicity Sub-Committee
COCOMI