In a shocking incident in Manipur, a deeply disturbing video has emerged, showing two women being paraded naked by a mob, molested, and dragged to a field where they were allegedly gang-raped. The video has triggered massive condemnation from all quarters, with demands for immediate action.
The Supreme Court of India has taken serious note of the situation, with Chief Justice DY Chandrachud condemning the incident as a gross constitutional failure. The court has called upon the government to act swiftly and ensure the safety of women in the region. The Chief Justice warned that if the government fails to take action, the court will step in and intervene. A hearing on the case is scheduled for July 28.
The incident occurred on May 4 in the Kangpokpi district, situated about 35 km from the state capital, Imphal. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) issued a statement confirming the horrifying incident. In response, the Manipur police apprehended a key suspect named Heradas (32) from Thoubal district, aided by the video evidence where he was seen wearing a green T-shirt.
The violence erupted on May 3 during a ‘Tribal Solidarity March,’ which was organized to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. This incident has further intensified tensions, with the Kuki tribe demanding the resignation of the Chief Minister. The ethnic violence has already resulted in the loss of over 120 lives, leaving thousands internally displaced and seeking refuge in relief camps.
The situation calls for urgent and decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice and to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, especially women, in Manipur. The society at large and the government must work together to prevent such heinous acts and uphold the principles of justice and equality for all.
