The Kom Union Manipur (KUM) has issued a warning against the misuse of the Kom community’s name for personal interests. Speaking at a press conference held at the community hall in KR Lane, New Checkon, Imphal East, on Friday, KUM President Serto Ahou Kom emphasized that the Kom community is dedicated to peace and coexistence.
President Serto Ahou Kom addressed concerns about individuals misleading society by using the Kom community’s name improperly. He highlighted that since the outbreak of violence in Manipur on May 3, 2023, numerous adverse incidents have impacted not only the Meitei and Kuki communities but also other indigenous groups, including the Kom community.
Ahou pointed out that certain individuals or groups with vested interests have issued statements against KUM’s interests. He warned that such actions must cease immediately as they could mislead the Kom community and the broader society.
A press note from KUM, signed by David L, the Secretary of Information and Publicity, expressed deep pain and distress over a social media post dated July 16. The post, written in the Kuki language by an individual named S Kom, Joint Secretary of the COTU Defence Wing, falsely claimed affiliation with the Kom tribe. KUM clarified that S Kom is from Phailen village, which is not a Kom village, and accused him of attempting to implicate the Kom community in the ongoing conflict.
KUM, as the representative body of the Kom community, seeks to resolve the current crisis through peaceful negotiations and dialogue. President Ahou stated that any individual found using the Kom community’s name without KUM’s consent for personal gain would be held accountable for their actions.
