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Several injured after COCOMI-led protest rallies turn violent in Manipur
COCOMI-led protests in Imphal submitted a seven-point memorandum to the Manipur government, but the rally turned violent with injuries reported at multiple locations. An executive member of COCOMI was assaulted amid the unrest.
Why It Matters
The incident underscores ongoing communal and political tensions in Manipur and the demands of a regional apex body, with potential implications for state government responses and security measures.
Timeline
4 Events
Violence during protest and assault on COCOMI member
April 25, 2026
Tension rose as protesters claimed leaders misled them; the rally turned violent with tear gas shells, mock bombs and rubber bullets reportedly used. A mob assaulted Mayengbam Somorjit, a COCOMI executive member and former president of DESAM.
Protest and memorandum submission to the chief minister’s residence
April 25, 2026
The protest began at 1 pm from different directions in Imphal and proceeded toward the chief minister’s residence in Babupara to submit a memorandum containing seven demands related to the ongoing situation in Manipur.
COCOMI issues directive for 'final' protest and seven-point demands
April 24, 2026
On Friday, COCOMI issued a directive appealing to the public to launch a protest rally, calling it a 'final round of calibrated agitation'. The body outlined seven demands, including clarity on whether the government intends to stop what they term a 'proxy war' against indigenous people, action following the April 7 incidents, rehabilitation and reconciliation of internally displaced persons, and the suspension of certain Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreements with armed groups.
Background: April 7 Bishnupur-Churachandpur incidents and fatalities
April 7, 2026
On April 7, 2026, five people were killed in two separate incidents in Bishnupur and Churachandpur, including two minors. Paramilitary forces reportedly fired in Churachandpur, killing three civilians. These killings are cited in COCOMI's seven-point demands and the broader discourse on the ongoing violence in Manipur.