Kom Union Manipur reiterates the community’s neutral position, stressing peaceful coexistence, customary rights, and protection of Kom identity.
Imphal, May 22: The Kom Union Manipur (KUM), the apex body representing the Kom community, has reiterated the community’s long-held position of neutrality and peaceful coexistence, stating that the identity and collective future of the Kom people should remain independent of external influence or communal alignment.
In a press release issued on May 20, KUM said the Kom community, despite being small in population, has historically maintained harmonious relations with all communities across Manipur and beyond. The organisation stated that the community’s continuity and survival through generations have been rooted in values of neutrality, mutual respect, non-alignment in communal conflicts, and peaceful coexistence.
Referring to the present social and conflict environment, KUM said smaller communities often face pressure to associate themselves with one side or another. Against this backdrop, the union reaffirmed its position with the assertion that “Kom is Kom”, emphasising that decisions concerning the community’s future must be determined by the collective aspirations and welfare of the Kom people.
The union stated that neutrality should not be interpreted as weakness but as a conscious and principled position aimed at preserving peace, dignity, and harmonious coexistence among communities. It added that the Kom people have maintained cordial relations across communities throughout history and intend to continue following that path.
KUM further asserted its role as the representative and apex body of the Kom community and said it would continue to guide and safeguard matters related to welfare, customary practices, identity, rights, and collective interests in accordance with the wishes and consent of the community.
The statement also maintained that in areas concerning customary interests and collective affairs, where formal legal provisions remain silent or undefined, KUM would continue to function as the guiding authority based on customary consensus and collective community will.
Appealing to all sections of society, KUM called for respect toward the historical position, neutrality, dignity, and distinct identity of the Kom community and urged against actions or narratives that could affect communal harmony and peaceful coexistence.
