Kuki Inpi, KSO & HSA Condemn Wrongful Arrest of 6 Individuals, Demand Immediate Release

Churachandpur, October 2, 2023: In a shocking turn of events, the abduction of six individuals, including two minors, allegedly by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Manipur, has raised serious concerns and led to widespread condemnation from various organizations in the region.

Kuki Inpi Manipur Expresses Deep Resentment

The Kuki Inpi Manipur, the apex body of the Kuki tribes in Manipur, has expressed its deep resentment over the arrest of six Kuki-Zo individuals, raising questions about selective justice and discrimination in the state. The organization issued a press release, highlighting their dismay at the alleged manipulation of law and order by the Manipur state government.

They questioned why arrests are made based on suspicion when it comes to the Kuki-Zo community while those responsible for heinous crimes against their own community remain at large. The Kuki Inpi Manipur accused the Manipur state government of pursuing a nefarious agenda to eliminate the Kuki-Zo community from the state.

The organization demanded the immediate release of the abductees and warned that they would not be responsible for any untoward incident resulting from the suppression and oppression of their community by the Manipur state government.

Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) Condemns Abduction

The Kuki Students’ Organisation General Headquarters (KSO-GHQ) also vehemently condemned the recent abduction of six civilians, including two minors, allegedly carried out by the NIA. They emphasized that the abduction of innocent civilians, particularly minors, constitutes a grave violation of human rights and principles of justice.

KSO-GHQ clarified that the accused individuals, Mr. Boisawm Haokip and Mr. Paominlun Haokip, are neither KNF Zogam cadres nor involved in the said murder case. They are, in fact, the President and General Secretary of KSO Leimata Block, respectively.

The organization called upon relevant authorities, including the NIA, to ensure the safe return of the abducted civilians and to uphold the principles of justice, human rights, and child protection.

KSO-GHQ expressed deep concern over the selective and discriminatory opening of cases by central government agencies, urging them not to act hastily under political pressure. They also condemned a recent Facebook post by Chief Minister Biren Singh, cautioning against statements that prejudge or influence ongoing investigations.

Hmar Students’ Association Joins the Condemnation

The Hmar Students’ Association General Headquarters (HSA-GHQ) joined the condemnation, strongly expressing their concern over the abduction of six innocent civilians, including two minors. They emphasized the need to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and equality for all citizens.

The HSA-GHQ called for immediate action to ensure the safe release of the abducted individuals and urged thorough and expeditious investigations into the matter. They also expressed concern over the delay in delivering justice in the case of the beheading of David Thiek, stressing the importance of swift action.

Furthermore, the organization condemned the pillaging of tribal Kuki-Zomi-Hmar Mizo villages and churches, calling for the recovery of stolen armory loots in Imphal.

The HSA-GHQ urged the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to approach these cases without bias and discrimination, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and equal justice for all.

Solidarity and Calls for Justice

These organizations, representing various tribal communities in Manipur, have collectively raised their voices against the abduction and called for justice to be served impartially and swiftly. They emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of the accused individuals and ensuring a fair and transparent legal process.

The situation in Manipur remains tense as these organizations continue to demand justice and accountability, highlighting the need for equal protection under the law for all citizens, regardless of their community or background.