Amnesty blasts govts' 'inability ' to safeguard rights in Manipur

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: In a public statement titled "India: Wanton Killings, Violence, and Human Righ ts Abuses in Manipur," Amnesty International expressed deep concern about the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur and criticized the Centre and state authorities for their perceived inability to safeguard human rights in the region.

The human rights NGO called upon the government to collaborate with civil society groups and members of all ethnic communities to restore peace and ensure the protection of human rights. Manipur has been witnessing ethnic clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities since May 3.

Widespread incidents of violence and arson continue to deepen the crisis . Over 140 people have been killed and nearly 60,000 have been forced to flee their homes.

The statement from Amnesty sheds light on various aspects of the situation including the background behind the violence, the ethnic dimension of the conflict, reports of police misconduct, testimonies from refugees, and the impact of the internet shutdown.

By highlighting the voices of victims and emphasizing India's commitment to international law, the organization seeks to draw attention to the urgent need for intervention and resolution.

Amnesty International's plea is essentially a call to action, urging the Indian government to address the prevailing violence, uphold human rights, and engage in collaborative efforts with civil society and diverse e thn ic communities to bring about lasting peace in Manipur.