Ethnic Conflict in Manipur: Video of Kuki Women Paraded Naked Sparks Outrage

 In a shocking incident amid ethnic conflict in Manipur, a distressing video emerged on May 4, showing two Kuki women being paraded naked by men believed to be from the Meitei community. The women were subjected to sexual assault and molestation during the incident. The Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, expressed grave concern over this gross violation of human rights and condemned the use of women as instruments of violence. The Supreme Court gave the government time to intervene and act decisively, but asserted that if no action is taken, the court will step in to address the matter. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condemned the incident, stating that the guilty would not be spared.

The ethnic unrest in Manipur stemmed from clashes between the Meitei tribe, with a majority in the valley, and the Kuki tribe, with a majority in the hills. The Meiteis were demanding Scheduled Tribes (ST) status. The incident sparked widespread condemnation and calls for action, leading to the first arrest 77 days after the video went viral. Thousands of people were internally displaced and living in relief camps due to the violence, which had claimed over 120 lives.

Prime Minister Modi’s statement in parliament extended beyond Manipur, urging all Chief Ministers to strengthen law and order in their states and take strict action against heinous crimes involving women. Opposition parties demanded a discussion on the Manipur incident in parliament, and 15 MPs supported the call for suspending all business for this purpose.

The situation in Manipur was deeply disturbing, and both the judiciary and government expressed their concerns and commitment to address the issue and deliver justice to the victims. The incident not only highlighted the grave human rights violation but also brought attention to the importance of maintaining law and order across the country to safeguard the dignity and safety of all citizens.