United Nations, Geneva, Switzerland, March 28 (HBTV): The spokesperson of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) Khuraijam Athouba, delivered another statement in person at the ongoing regular session of the 55th session of the UN Human Rights Council, on March 27 in Geneva, Switzerland. 

His statement was made in relation to a general debate agenda which focused on the follow-up and implementation of the Vienna Declaration and Program of Action or VDPA, updates received here from the COCOMI stated.

During his address, Khuraijam Athouba underscored the urgent need for concerted efforts to uphold the principles outlined in the VDPA and to ensure their effective implementation. According to a statement highlighting his address, he emphasized the importance of addressing the ongoing violence and human rights violations in Manipur and the Northeast region of India. 

‘Upholding human rights and ensuring accountability for abuses are paramount. Transparent mechanisms for justice, including independent investigations and reconciliation processes, are essential for healing societal divisions and building trust. By embracing the VDPA principles, India can chart a path towards a more peaceful and inclusive future in NE region,’ he stated. 

In light of the situation of ongoing violence in Manipur affecting other neighboring states such as Mizoram, Assam and Sagaing and Chin areas in Myanmar , it is imperative for all stakeholders, including the government, CSOs, and international partners, to redouble their efforts towards finding sustainable solutions to the region's challenges, the press release stated. 

The COCOMI has urged international organizations, including this council, to 'support initiatives aimed at promoting peace, human rights, and development in Indo-Myanmar border areas of Northeast India by facilitating inclusive dialogue, providing development assistance, and ensuring accountability for human rights violations’.      

Together, the statement said, ‘we can work towards a brighter future for the region, in line with the spirit of the Vienna Declaration.’