The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a reminder to the Manipur government regarding the status of reports concerning human rights violations in the state. The NHRC has already received responses for most cases but awaits information on eight outstanding cases. These reports were sought following the registration of 18 cases in connection with incidents of violence and human rights violations that occurred in Manipur over the past few months.
The Commission initiated this action to ensure that all necessary information is gathered and that measures for relief, rehabilitation, and the well-being of those affected are adequately addressed. The NHRC has a significant focus on the human rights of individuals who have suffered due to these incidents, and it is imperative that their needs are met.
The NHRC emphasized that the Government of Manipur has already taken several steps in response to the incidents of violence, including:
- Reinforcements in Law and Order Machinery and Security: To enhance security and maintain law and order.
- Setting of Relief Camps and Peace Committee: Establishing relief camps to provide temporary shelter and a peace committee to promote understanding and reconciliation.
- Relaxing Curfew: Gradually easing curfew restrictions to ensure the well-being and movement of the public.
- Reinstating Internet and Banking Services: To restore essential services in a controlled manner.
- Ex-Gratia for the Families of the Deceased: Providing financial support to the families of those who lost their lives.
- Compensation Packages for the Injured: Offering compensation to those who were injured in the incidents.
- Rebuilding Damaged Houses: Undertaking efforts to rebuild houses that were damaged.
- Constitution of a Commission of Inquiry: The central government has constituted an inquiry commission to investigate the root causes of the conflict.
- CBI Investigation: Six First Information Reports (FIRs) have been transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for independent investigation.
- Relief Camps: Many relief camps are operational in the affected areas.
The NHRC has also directed the Manipur government to ensure the following:
- Adequate facilities for sanitation and waste disposal at relief camps.
- Proper provision of drinking water, cooking, and washing facilities.
- Nutritious food as prescribed by the National Disaster Management Authority.
- Maintenance of health and mental health services.
- Provision of primary healthcare services within the camps.
- Adequate arrangements for schooling and educational services in affected areas, particularly for children in the camps.
- Employment opportunities for the residents of the camps to support their livelihoods.
- Assistance for rebuilding damaged houses.
- Organizing peace-building measures for rival communities.
In addition, the NHRC has requested detailed information from the Manipur government regarding compensation provided to the next of kin of victims, compassionate appointments, steps taken for peace-building, and more.
The Commission remains dedicated to ensuring that the human rights and well-being of those affected by incidents of violence in Manipur are protected and that necessary measures are implemented promptly.
NHRC Press Statement
The NHRC has been actively seeking updates and action plans from the Manipur government to address human rights violations and the well-being of those affected by recent incidents of violence in the state. Many steps have already been taken to enhance security, provide relief and support to affected individuals, and address the root causes of the conflict. The NHRC’s continued engagement with the Manipur government is vital to ensuring that the rights and needs of those affected are prioritized.
The Manipur government has been responsive and proactive in addressing these incidents and has taken a range of measures to provide relief, compensation, and support to the affected individuals and communities. The Commission’s ongoing collaboration with the government aims to further enhance these efforts and ensure that comprehensive action is taken to address the human rights challenges in the state.
The NHRC remains committed to promoting and protecting human rights and will continue to engage with the Manipur government to monitor and address the situation effectively. The well-being and rights of individuals affected by these incidents are paramount, and the NHRC will work diligently to ensure that they receive the support and assistance they require.