The Delhi Meetei Coordinating Committee has condemned the Kanto Sabal arson incident, questioned the security response near Leimakhong Army Camp, and demanded accountability from authorities.
Imphal, July 14: The Delhi Meetei Coordinating Committee (DMCC) has strongly condemned the arson attack at Kanto Sabal village in Manipur's Imphal West district, alleging that at least six houses belonging to Meetei families were deliberately set on fire during a protest by what it described as "Kuki miscreants." The organisation questioned the response of security forces deployed in the area and called for accountability over the incident.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Delhi-based body described the attack as a targeted act of violence that occurred on July 11 and expressed concern over what it termed a serious failure of security despite the incident taking place close to major military installations.
According to the DMCC, the houses were torched within about 50 to 100 metres of the 57th Mountain Division headquarters at Leimakhong and a Punjab Regiment camp. It argued that the proximity of these security establishments made the incident particularly alarming and raised questions about why the attack could not be prevented.
The committee claimed that videos circulating on social media and eyewitness accounts appeared to show the alleged perpetrators leaving the area in full view of the military camp. It maintained that the failure to stop the attack or apprehend those responsible has raised concerns regarding the operational response of the security forces deployed in the area.
The statement also referred to the disappearance of Meetei civilian Kamal Babu from the same locality last year, alleging that the case remains unresolved and has further eroded public confidence.
Among the properties destroyed was the residence of former Indian footballer Laitonjam Sanathoi. The DMCC stated that the incident brought back memories of the violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, when hundreds of Meetei houses were destroyed during the outbreak of ethnic conflict in Manipur.
The organisation also criticised the conduct of security personnel during the visit of Inner Manipur Member of Parliament Angomcha Bimol Akoijam to the affected village. It alleged that the manner in which security forces dealt with the MP reflected disregard not only for an elected representative but also for the people of Manipur.
The committee further alleged that local Meetei and Naga residents who attempted to extinguish the fire and prevent further damage were prevented from reaching the affected houses. It claimed that security personnel blocked access to the area and used lathi charges and tear gas against civilians attempting to assist.
The DMCC also expressed dissatisfaction with remarks allegedly made by Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam regarding the incident. It urged both the Chief Minister and the Home Minister to resign if they were unable to fulfil their constitutional responsibility of protecting the lives and property of citizens.
Raising broader concerns over the security situation in Manipur, the organisation alleged that military and security operations have disproportionately affected Meetei-inhabited areas while armed groups operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement have not faced comparable action.
The committee also questioned the implementation of the disarmament process following the Governor's appeal earlier this year. It claimed that while Meetei groups surrendered weapons in the interest of restoring peace, several Kuki militant groups operating under the SoO framework had publicly refused to surrender their arms unless their political demands were met. According to the DMCC, this perceived disparity in enforcement has deepened resentment among sections of the population.
The organisation went on to allege that repeated attacks on Meetei settlements reflected a larger pattern that, in its view, has contributed to the prolonged instability in the state. These allegations have not been independently verified.
The DMCC called for:
Accountability from the Indian Army, central security forces and state security agencies over the Kanto Sabal incident.
An explanation from authorities on why security personnel failed to prevent damage to civilian property despite their presence nearby.
Immediate action against those responsible for the arson.
Complete dismantling and disarmament of militant networks operating in Manipur.
Restoration of constitutional governance, law and order across the state.
A review of the implementation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement and stronger action against armed groups involved in violence.
The committee stated that it stands in solidarity with the families affected by the Kanto Sabal incident and urged the government to ensure the safety of all communities while taking decisive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
