Tseminyu, April 4 ((MExN): The Rengma Students’ Union (RSU) has condemned the reported physical assault, harassment and extortion of two youths from the Rengma community, describing the incident as serious and concerning.
In a press release, the Union stated that the victims, unemployed youths from Phenda village in Tseminyu district, were engaged in small-scale trade, transporting and selling agricultural produce (yongchak) for livelihood.
According to the RSU, the incident occurred between the night of March 22 and early hours of March 23, when the two individuals were travelling towards Imphal.
They were allegedly intercepted by unidentified persons between Keithelmanbi and Sapermeina under Kangpokpi district in Manipur, and taken to an undisclosed location.
The Union alleged that the victims were subjected to intimidation, illegal detention and physical assault, and were coerced to pay a large sum of money. It further claimed that, upon failing to meet the demand, the perpetrators continued the assault and later robbed them of cash and a mobile phone.
Describing the incident as inhumane, the RSU stated that such acts threaten the safety, dignity and livelihood of individuals dependent on small-scale trade.
The Union demanded immediate identification and arrest of those involved, and called for a swift and impartial investigation by the concerned authorities. It also sought assurances for the safety and security of civilians, particularly traders and daily wage earners travelling along the route.
The RSU cautioned that failure to take prompt action may compel the Union to initiate steps to safeguard the rights and security of its members.
It also expressed solidarity with the victims and reiterated its commitment to protecting the dignity, safety and livelihood of the Rengma community.
