Imphal: A massive protest rally swept through Manipur's Churachandpur on Friday following a disturbing video that emerged, capturing the public humiliation and abuse of two tribal women amid the state's ethnic clashes.
The video, dating back two months, surfaced a day ago and showed the women being paraded naked and sexually assaulted by a mob, sparking widespread outrage and demands for justice.
Manipur Police announced on Thursday that they have detained one of the primary suspects visible in the 26-second footage, captured from Thoubal district. According to the officials, the accused is believed to be the mastermind behind the heinous incident.
Following the outrage, Chief Minister N Biren Singh assured the public that stringent measures would be taken against all culprits involved, including the possibility of capital punishment. Several police units were promptly formed to investigate the incident and ensure swift justice.
"My heart goes out to the two women who were subjected to a deeply disrespectful and inhuman act," Singh tweeted on Thursday. He affirmed that a thorough investigation was underway, and no stone would be left unturned to ensure justice for the victims.
The incident, which comes against the backdrop of ongoing ethnic clashes in the region, drew condemnation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In his first comments on the conflict, which has so far claimed at least 80 lives, PM Modi labelled the assault as "shameful" and promised stern action.
The ongoing ethnic clashes in Manipur, a state of 3.2 million residents bordering Myanmar, have claimed at least 80 lives. The clashes which began in early May garnered national attention.
The violence erupted following a court order urging the state government to consider extending economic benefits and quotas enjoyed by the tribal Kuki people to the majority Meitei population.
The clashes had initially subsided by mid-May, but sporadic conflicts and killings resumed soon after, leaving the state in a state of unrest. The conflict has left hundreds injured and more than 40,000 displaced from their homes.
The disturbing video has added to the unrest, leading to nationwide outrage. Although the video's authenticity is yet to be verified, PM Modi expressed his anguish during a parliamentary session, emphasizing the need for stronger law enforcement measures across all states.
"What happened to the daughters of Manipur can never be forgiven," he stated.
The Supreme Court also expressed deep concern over the incident, with Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud terming it "unacceptable" in a constitutional democracy. The court has requested the government to inform them of the steps taken to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent similar occurrences in the future.