Imphal : The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has alleged that the delay in rescuing civilians reportedly held hostage by armed groups in Manipur indicates a possible “hidden agenda” behind the Centre’s handling of the ongoing crisis.

Addressing a public meeting at Thokchom Community Hall in Thoubal district on Sunday, COCOMI convenor Y.K. Dhiren questioned why authorities had failed to secure the release of the hostages despite India’s strong military and security capabilities.

The meeting was jointly organised by Thokchom Apunba Lamjing Meira Lup, Thokchom Youth Dynamic Association and Thokchom Youths and Students Development Organisation.

Dhiren described the prolonged captivity of civilians without decisive intervention as “shocking” and said it raised serious concerns regarding the intentions of the Government of India.

He further alleged that the continuing unrest in Manipur reflected a broader “proxy war” aimed at creating divisions among communities, including the Meitei, Naga and Kuki populations.

According to him, forces attempting to destabilise the state were seeking to deepen mistrust and conflict among different ethnic groups. The COCOMI leader urged residents to remain united and vigilant against attempts to divide communities and weaken the social fabric of Manipur.

He also appealed to the public not to fall into communal divisions and stressed the importance of safeguarding the territorial integrity and unity of the state through collective efforts.

Similar concerns over what speakers described as a “proxy war” strategy were reportedly raised during another public meeting held earlier at Wangkhei Ayangpalli, where participants expressed apprehension over the continuing violence and instability in the state.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions in Manipur following recent incidents involving civilians allegedly being held hostage by armed groups in parts of the hill districts.