Imphal, Sept 1: Civil society organisations in Manipur have strongly condemned the killing of Pu Nehkam Jomhao (59), Chairman of the Thadou Literature Society, describing it as a calculated assault on peace and unity in the state. Jomhao was reportedly abducted and killed on August 30 at his residence in Manja, Karbi Anglong, Assam.

The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) alleged that the assassination was carried out by Chin-Kuki narco-terrorist groups, including the UKDA and KRA. It said Jomhao’s mutilated body had not yet been recovered and claimed the killing was a deliberate attempt to silence advocates of reconciliation.

COCOMI recalled Jomhao’s recent participation in the “Road to Peace – Covenant of Community Understanding” programme in Imphal, where he had promoted dialogue and unity. “The killing of Mr. Jomhao is not an isolated act but a calculated suppression of voices that represent unity,” the committee said. It further urged the government to dismantle terror networks rather than provide “state-backed shields” under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreements, warning that appeasement in the name of peace talks was emboldening extremist groups and undermining trust among indigenous communities.

The Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS), Manipur, also issued a statement condemning what it described as the “barbaric abduction and killing.” The group highlighted Jomhao’s key role in the August 6 peace meeting in Imphal, where he voiced the aspirations of the Thadou community while emphasising unity and integrity for Manipur. “His murder is not only an attack on an individual but a direct assault on Manipur’s cultural integrity, communal harmony, and collective identity,” FOCS said.

Both organisations appealed to the people of Manipur to reject violence and remain united in defence of peace, heritage, and integrity. They also urged the authorities to ensure justice and prevent extremist forces from derailing the collective aspirations of the state.