Manipur Farmer Security — Amid escalating tensions and persistent threats to civilians, prominent Manipur civil organizations — the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) and the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) — have called for strict, round-the-clock security for farmers working in volatile rural areas across the state. The demand follows a surge in violent incidents that have heightened fears and disrupted agricultural activities.
Manipur Farmer Security: Rising Attacks Spark Concern
The call for action comes after a series of troubling incidents. Recently, a farmer was shot while tending his paddy field near the High Canal in Bishnupur district. On the same day, a civilian was fatally wounded during an exchange of fire between armed groups and security forces in Churachandpur. Farmers in these areas say they can no longer cultivate their fields without fear of harm.
Such incidents highlight deep-seated insecurity in villages and farming communities across Manipur. Farmers face risks not only from crossfire but also from targeted threats and intimidation that prevent them from earning their livelihoods.
Core Demands for Farmer Protection
COCOMI and AMUCO have outlined a series of critical measures that they say the government must implement immediately:
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Deployment of security personnel to provide continuous protection to farmers during working hours.
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Fixed agricultural working schedules coordinated with security agencies so farmers can plan sowing and harvesting safely.
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Thorough and impartial investigation into all attacks on farmers and civilians, ensuring that those responsible face legal consequences.
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Public assurance that all state machinery will act decisively against groups threatening agricultural activities.
Leaders from both organizations have emphasized that these measures must go beyond mere assurances and that visible action is required to restore public confidence.
Impact on Farmers and Food Security
With the kharif cropping season underway, continued insecurity has serious implications for food production in Manipur. Farmers often must leave their land uncultivated due to fear of attacks — a disruption that could lead to:
| Key Impact | Effect on Communities |
|---|---|
| Farmer Safety Risks | Farmers face fear and insecurity on a daily basis. |
| Crop Losses | Abandoned fields reduce harvests and income. |
| Market Instability | Supply disruptions could lead to higher food prices. |
| Trust Erosion | Farmers lose faith in security and administrative systems. |
| Livelihood Threats | Financial hardships deepen rural poverty and migration. |
Broader Context of Ethnic Tensions and Border Issues
Manipur continues to grapple with broader ethnic tensions and security issues. Many of these problems stem from a cycle of unresolved land disputes, insurgent activity, and border vulnerabilities. Civil organizations and local leaders argue that tackling farm security is part of a larger need to establish lasting peace across the state.
The state government and security agencies must strengthen intelligence networks and work with village councils to identify safe agricultural windows and hotspot areas requiring increased surveillance.
Steps Taken by the Authorities
The state police and district administration have acknowledged the need to improve farm safety. Steps under consideration include:
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Deploying special security units around paddy fields and other agricultural zones.
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Creating security response teams that can quickly reach at-risk villages.
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Public awareness campaigns to encourage reporting of suspicious activity.
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Improved coordination between civil bodies and law enforcement to address grievances before they escalate into serious threats.
Government and Civil Society Cooperation
Both COCOMI and AMUCO stress the importance of working closely with security agencies and district officials to resolve this issue. Civil bodies plan to continue holding public consultations with local farmers to identify the most vulnerable areas and report these findings to state officials for urgent action.
By creating a farmer-security liaison committee, civil leaders aim to keep communication channels open and ensure that protective measures are properly implemented.
External Resources for Support and Information
More updates and official information on security measures and agricultural policies can be accessed through credible government and civil society websites:
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Ministry of Home Affairs (North-East Division) – https://www.mha.gov.in/
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National Crime Records Bureau – https://ncrb.gov.in/
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Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare – https://agricoop.gov.in/
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Manipur Police Official Website – https://manipurpolice.gov.in/
Final Thoughts
The growing insecurity faced by farmers in Manipur underscores the need for immediate action. The demands made by COCOMI and AMUCO highlight that farm safety cannot wait — especially as agricultural livelihoods and food security hang in the balance. Strengthening security at the grassroots level, ensuring swift justice for perpetrators, and engaging civil society in policy-making will be key to restoring stability and confidence across rural Manipur.
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