Thousands rally in Manipur against recent killings, ethnic conflict

NEW DELHI: Thousands of people from different communities, including residents of Manipur's hill and valley regions, took part in a rally organised by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) in Imphal.The protesters demanding the scrapping of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with militant groups and the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs), news agency ANI reported.The protesters marched through the streets of the state capital, raising slogans and calling for protection of indigenous people.Several Naga organisations also backed the demands, with civil bodies holding marches in Chandel and Senapati districts in support of the rally.The Naga organisations have called for the termination of the SoO agreement, accusing Kuki-Zo militant groups of involvement in violence.The demonstrations come amid continuing tensions in the state, where the ethnic conflict between the valley-based Meitei and hill-based Kuki communities, which began in May 2023, has claimed at least 306 lives, while several people remain missing.Clashes between Kuki and Naga groups have also reportedly claimed around 50 lives since February this year, according to PTI.The rallies were held days after militants allegedly ambushed 14 Meitei men, killing three of them and triggering protests across the state.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.