Manipur, a northeast state of India, is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly the traditional dance form called Manipuri dance. It is a classical dance form that has been practised for centuries and is deeply ingrained in the state’s culture. Regarding the references to Manipur in ancient texts like the Mahabharata, it is important to note that historical and mythological accounts often intertwine, making it challenging to establish a clear demarcation between the two. In the Mahabharata, there is a mention of a princess named Chitrangada from the kingdom of Manipur. She was one of the wives of Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers. Legends and folklore have perpetuated the belief that the inhabitants of Manipur have a celestial origin and are considered descendants of Gandharvas. Gandharvas are celestial beings associated with music, singing, and dancing in Hindu mythology. This connection has contributed to the reputation of Manipur being known as Gandharva-Desa, similar to Kashmir’s association with Gandharvas. Manipur has a rich culture and religious significance. The Vedic scriptures indeed hold historical and cultural significance in India, and references to various regions, including Manipur, are found in these ancient texts. The idea of Manipur being a Krishna-conscious land might be rooted in local beliefs and legends, connecting the region to Krishna, an important deity in Hindu mythology. Lord Krishna, who was the saviour of Draupadi during her cheerharan in the Mahabharata, failed to protect the cheerharan of Kalyug Draupadi from the Kalyug Kauravas.
We all have seen and heard about the news of violence between two tribal groups in Manipur, namely the Meiteis, who predominantly dwell in the valley, and the Kuki-Zomis, who reside in the hills. The conflict has arisen due to the longstanding demand from the Meitei community to be included in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs).
Now a disturbing video showing two women from the Kuki-Zomi community in Manipur being publicly stripped and paraded naked has become widely circulated online. This video has garnered strong condemnation from the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum, who view it as evidence of horrifying and atrocious acts committed against the community. The incident occurred in the Kangpokpi district during a period of mob violence that erupted after the burning of a village. A complaint was filed by a relative, resulting in a “zero FIR” being registered at the Nongpok Sekmai police station. During the mob violence, two men were killed, and three women were subjected to forcible stripping and gang-rape. Tragically, one of the victim’s brother also lost his life while trying to protect his sister. However, there was a glimmer of hope as the three women managed to escape with the assistance of locals.
Manipur Police have arrested a few people in connection to the horrific incident. It is truly distressing to acknowledge that throughout history and even in modern times, women have often been subjected to objectification, sexual violence, and abuse, particularly during times of conflict and war. The Nanjing massacre is a stark example of such atrocities committed against women. In the 21st century, we have made significant progress in recognizing and advocating for human rights and dignity. However, during conflict or in war zones, these rights are frequently violated, leaving vulnerable populations, especially women and children, exposed to unimaginable suffering. The Kuki case raises important questions about the motivations behind such heinous acts. It is difficult to comprehend the exact reasons for using women as objects of revenge or sexual violence, as it may vary in each context. In some cases, it might be an attempt to assert power and dominance over the affected community or to showcase their strength to intimidate and control others, including the government. By subjecting women to such brutal acts, the perpetrators might aim to demonstrate that they operate beyond the reach of law, government, and societal norms, thereby weakening the social fabric and instilling fear in the population. In doing so, they may believe it will force the government or opposing parties to accede to their demands or meet their objectives. In many instances, sexual violence is used as a weapon of war to inflict severe psychological and physical harm on the victims and their communities. It creates an environment of terror, silencing dissent and undermining the fabric of society. Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach, including ensuring the enforcement of international humanitarian laws, promoting gender equality and women’s rights, providing support and protection to survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. It demands a collective effort from governments, international organizations, civil society, and individuals to create a world where human rights are respected and protected, regardless of the circumstances.
The incident in Manipur has indeed raised significant questions and concerns that demand urgent attention and action. Let’s address each of the highlighted issues: It is essential for the judiciary and the government to take immediate and decisive action against the culprits. Justice delayed is justice denied, and swift action is crucial to ensuring that the perpetrators are held accountable for their heinous acts.
The victims’ women should not have to endure lengthy court procedures to seek justice. The legal system should prioritise cases of this nature and work to expedite the judicial process, providing the victims with a fair and timely trial.
The incident of the mob taking the victims from police custody raises serious questions about the efficacy of law enforcement and the need for better security measures to protect those in custody. Such incidents highlight the importance of ensuring the safety of detainees and holding accountable those responsible for any breach of security.
The delay in circulating the video and not reporting the incident to the authorities immediately is indeed concerning. It is essential for individuals witnessing such acts or possessing evidence to promptly inform the relevant administrative bodies or law enforcement agencies to facilitate timely actions and protect the victims’ rights. The police should have taken action against the culprits right after the filing of the Zero FIR. Waiting for the video to circulate before making arrests raises doubts about the efficacy and impartiality of the police investigation. Law enforcement should act proactively to gather evidence and apprehend suspects in a timely manner.
Addressing these concerns requires a comprehensive approach that involves strengthening law enforcement, improving the judicial system, raising awareness about gender-based violence, and promoting a culture of respect and equality. Additionally, education and social reforms can play a vital role in preventing such incidents and promoting a more just and equitable society. It is crucial for the authorities and the community to work together to ensure that such heinous crimes are not tolerated and that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice.
Even in some reports, it has been said that some women from the Meitei community have provoked/instigated their male family members to commit rape on women from the Kuki community. This is really shocking and heartbreaking. How can a woman instigate such kind of things against other women? This goes against the entire notion of women’s solidarity. These questions and concerns indicate the need for comprehensive reforms in the justice system, law enforcement, and public awareness campaigns to address and prevent such incidents in the future. Collaboration between the government, civil society, and international organizations is vital to ensure that women’s rights are protected, and violence against women is met with swift and effective responses. Above all, nothing is important except human life dignity. Irrespective of caste, religions, tribes etc, we are all human beings.
Dr Pyali Chatterjee is HOD, Faculty of Law, ICFAI University, Raipur, Chhattisgarh.