DIMAPUR, AUGUST 4 (MExN): The Indian Human Rights Council (IHRC) Nagaland State Board has urged leaders of both communities in Manipur to seek peace and harmony “through diplomatic talks from lower to the highest level.” “It is of our opinion that the people of Manipur (Meitei and Kukis) have their roots and influence to the neighbouring states and nation as well. Thus, peace in Manipur means there will be peace in the Northeast and in the country,” a press release from the council stated.
It expressed concern at the violence, killings and destruction of properties in Manipur, which is happening on regular basis on both sides. “The council is of the opinion that a solution to any disagreement can find its place in the table through deliberate discussions and talks. But the course in which a dissension turned two communities, who had been living together cheek by jowl despite the difference in the beliefs for centuries, now tearing their home state call Manipur, which they build together through blood and sweat, it is truly a moment to grieve about,” it stated.
The council said that the impact this conflict has on the people, the loss of lives, inhuman treatment of women, failure to protect civilians, failure for speedy justice for the victims, these are all a violation of Article 3 (Rights to life, liberty and security of person), Article 5 (Against torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment), Article 7 (Equal before the law) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights accepted by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10th Dec, 1948 (General Assembly resolution 217 A).
The council also specifically expressed serious concern for the safety of women after the viral video of two tribal women being paraded naked was circulated. “There are multiple reports coming into light of such incidences that happened since the day the clash took place. It is a crime no human should think of committing in rage or consciously. We demand the law agency in Manipur to protect its citizens at all cost,” the IHRC Nagaland said.
The council also asked the state government to not sequester itself from its responsibility and take serious steps to bring a permanent solution to this cataclysm. The inability to act by a government will eventually quiver the faith of its citizens on its own government, it added.
