Condemns assault of two Rongmei Naga women
- Bangkok, 11th December 2023 : Global Manipur Federation -

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The Global Manipur Federation strongly condemns the unruly apprehension, beating, moral policing, and the justice meted out by a mob in Bishnupur to two Rongmei women at Ningthoukhong, Bishnupur District on Dec 8, 2023.

On the mentioned date, two Rongmei girls from Thingpui (Laimanai) village and wardens of Loyala School, Bishnupur, were returning from school by autorickshaw. Unfortunately, they were stopped by a few Meitei individuals at Shantipur village under Loktak Project Police Station, who then handed them over to Meira Paibis in Ningthoukhong. The Meira Paibis later subjected the girls to mistreatment in a community hall located at Bishnupur Bazaar. After a prolonged ordeal, the Father of Loyala School, namely Father Robert and Father James, intervened and rescued the victims.

Regrettably, this incident is not an isolated occurrence but adds to a distressing pattern of similar events in our past. Such heinous acts go beyond violating individuals' physical integrity; they undermine the fabric of our society, eroding trust among communities, fostering fear, and sending a chilling message to every woman.

This erosion of the foundation upon which a harmonious community should be built is intolerable in a civilised society. This abhorrent incident serves as a stark reminder that even in a supposedly civilised society, acts of cruelty and harassment can occur without warning. We have a long way to go in terms of ensuring the safety, well-being, and dignity of every member of the community.

It is imperative that we hold the perpetrators accountable, ensuring justice is served. This will send a strong message that such acts will not be tolerated in our society. Counselling programs for the perpetrators can serve as a means of rehabilitation, re-education, and a step towards building a society that rejects violence in all its forms.

The criminal behaviour by a mob of a few unruly Meiteis is strongly condemned by all members of the Global Manipur Federation. We urge the public to condemn such incidents and initiate discourse on the increasing occurrences of 'mob violence.' Addressing these criminal activities is crucial to prevent inhuman behaviours in the future.

The Rongmei Women Organization has extended an invitation to the Meira Paibis of Ningthoukhong for a meeting and reconciliation scheduled for 11-12-2023. In alignment with this effort, the Global Manipur Federation appeals to Meiteis, Naga, and other communities that have been integral parts of peaceful coexistence in Manipur for hundreds of years.

The call is for kindness towards each other, fostering mutual respect and understanding to develop a strong community that is safer for all. This, in the long term, will inculcate the vital and inherent spirit of sense belongingness and responsibility to the idea of Manipur.

Media Team,
Global Manipur Federation,
Women wing,
(Representing Asia, Africa, America, Australia, Europe, Middle East and New Zealand)