Violence in Manipur: Outrage and Demands for Justice as Women Paraded Naked Amid Ethnic Conflict

| 20 July 2023

The shocking incident of two women being paraded naked in violence-hit Manipur has sent shockwaves across the nation, igniting widespread condemnation and demands for swift action. The incident, which occurred on May 4, is a grim reminder of the ethnic tensions that have engulfed the region. As the horrifying video came to light, showing the women from one community being humiliated and assaulted by men from another warring tribe, outrage reached the highest echelons of the country's leadership.

The violence in Manipur escalated following the valley-majority Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The hill-majority Kuki tribe opposed the demand, leading to clashes and unrest that culminated in this heinous act against women. In the video, one of the women was subjected to a brutal gang-rape, and her brother lost his life while trying to intervene.

The incident triggered a strong response from political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who broke his silence on the situation in Manipur, stating that what happened to the daughters of Manipur is unforgivable. He assured the nation that the law would act with its full might, and the perpetrators would not be spared.

The Supreme Court of India also expressed its deep concern, deeming the visuals as a "gross constitutional failure." Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud condemned the incident and called for immediate action by the government. The court asserted that if the authorities failed to act, the judiciary would intervene and take up the case on July 28.

Following the public outcry, Union Home Minister Amit Shah contacted Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, urging strict action against those involved. The Chief Minister responded promptly, announcing the arrest of the main accused and expressing his commitment to pursue the possibility of capital punishment for the guilty.

While investigations are underway, the government issued an order to social media platforms, including Twitter, to refrain from sharing the viral video, citing an ongoing investigation.

The Opposition seized the moment to demand immediate action and accountability. They called for an all-party delegation to visit Manipur without delay and demanded that Prime Minister Modi address the situation in Parliament. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge accused the government of turning democracy into "mobocracy" and urged President Droupadi Murmu to impose President's rule in the state.

Trinamool Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, and other parties also voiced their criticism of the government's response to the incident and demanded swift action and accountability from the Prime Minister. The situation in Manipur became a point of discussion on the opening day of the monsoon session of Parliament.

The incident has not only sparked outrage within the country but also drew international attention. The gross violation of human rights and violence against women have been strongly condemned worldwide.

As the investigation continues, the nation remains anxious for justice to be served to the victims and punishment to be meted out to the perpetrators. The incident has shed light on the urgent need for addressing ethnic conflicts and protecting vulnerable communities in the region.

The call for justice echoes loudly, with millions of Indians demanding accountability and action to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated. As the nation awaits the court's decision and the government's response, the focus remains on preventing such heinous acts and upholding the rights and dignity of every citizen in the diverse and vibrant tapestry of India.