For three long months, Manipur has been embroiled in a harrowing spiral of violence, leaving behind a trail of unspeakable atrocities. Rape, mob attacks, killings, and house burnings have become a horrifying daily reality. It’s been one month since British Herald Magazine shed light on distress happening in Manipur, India. Nothing has changed… Morphing clashes between two communities into a menacing communal strife that threatens to engulf the entire state. Amidst this turmoil, the silence of the Prime Minister and the complacency of the Chief Minister have only fueled public outrage.
“As the rest of the nation grapples with its own set of challenges, the urgency to address Manipur’s plight cannot be downplayed or excused”.
Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, rightly pointed out that the crimes against women in Manipur cannot be dismissed or justified by the occurrence of similar crimes in other parts of the country. Manipur is facing a crisis that demands focused attention, and immediate intervention. Moreover, a genuine commitment to address its root causes. As the crimes occurring in Manipur has certain motive and cause. These crimes are part of establishing certain motives. Unlike the others which are reported and taken timely actions. In Manipur the crimes are not even reported, even the chief minister said a lot of crimes happened which is unknown to the media
The Plight of Women and Children
The plight of Manipur’s women and children is particularly distressing. As they bear the brunt of the ongoing communal strife. The violence has left over 60,000 people displaced. With a staggering 40,000 languishing in relief camps without adequate amenities. The silence of the Prime Minister and Chief Minister only adds to the public outrage. Also deepens the sense of abandonment felt by the affected communities. After 3 months of violence, PM Modi spoke once, when the terrific video of women paraded naked shook the internet.
The lack of assistance from the Centre in responding to the refugee crisis in Mizoram further highlights the apathy towards Manipur’s struggles. Over 35 relief camps in Mizoram are housing Kuki refugees who escaped the bloodshed. But the Mizoram government’s request for assistance from the Centre has gone unanswered. The absence of a comprehensive statement from the Prime Minister is disheartening. Moreover, leaving the victims and their families yearning for a response that remains elusive.
The Urgent Need for Decisive Action
While the CBI has been asked to probe a case of rape and sexual assault against two women. Meanwhile, their refusal of a CBI inquiry raises concerns about their access to justice and accountability. It is essential to ensure that the victims’ wishes are respected and that a fair and impartial investigation takes place.
The current response to the situation in Manipur falls woefully short. There is a pressing need for decisive action that not only addresses the immediate humanitarian crisis but also delves into the underlying causes of this long-standing conflict. The people of Manipur deserve more than mere silence and inaction from those in power.
As the rest of the country faces its own set of challenges, it is imperative to recognise the situation in Manipur. Moreover, it demands urgent attention as a unique and pressing issue.
More Coverage on Manipur Violence: https://www.britishherald.com/?s=Manipur+
Log in to read British Herald Magazine: https://www.britishherald.com/2023/07/05/democracy-in-distress-tightening-restrictions-and-minority-attacks-raise-alarms-in-india-british-herald-magazine-july-2023/
