MANIPUR: In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves across Manipur, a distressing video of two Kuki women being paraded naked by a violent mob has gone viral. This horrific act occurred amidst the clashes between the Meitei and Kuki tribes over the demand for Scheduled Tribes (ST) status. Adding to the distress, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) alleges that the women were also subjected to gang rape during this gruesome ordeal. The heart-wrenching video captures the women's pleas for mercy as they are molested by the mob. The Manipur Police have promptly filed a case and initiated an investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice. The incident has triggered widespread outrage with political leaders and social media users demanding swift action against those responsible. This appalling event underscores the urgent need to address violence against women and ensure the safety and security of all individuals in society.*
The Horrifying Incident:
The shocking video that came to light reveals the gruesome act committed against Kuki-Zo tribal women by a large Meitei mob. On the unfortunate day of May 4, in Kangpokpi district, the mob paraded the helpless women naked towards a paddy field, where they were subjected to further violence.
Seeking Justice:
The incident unfolded tragically as the village of B. Phainom was burned down, and two innocent men lost their lives at the hands of the mob. The horrifying ordeal suffered by the two women is further aggravated by the fact that the perpetrators shared the video on social media, exposing the identity of the victims.
Outrage and Demands:
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum has vehemently condemned this heinous act and called upon the central and state governments, National Commission for Women, and National Commission for Scheduled Tribes to take swift action against the culprits and ensure justice for the victims. A police complaint has been filed by the relatives of the women, alleging gang rape, which led to the registration of a zero FIR at the Saikul police station of Kangpokpi district on May 18.
Calling for Urgent Action:
The incident has ignited the need to address violence against women and ensure the safety of every individual in Manipur. It is imperative for the authorities to take immediate and effective measures to apprehend the perpetrators and extend support and protection to the victims and their families. Such acts of violence have no place in a civilized society, and the world demands justice for the victims and an end to the culture of impunity.
