The United States has responded to the distressing video depicting a brutal attack on two women in Manipur, expressing its support for the Indian Government’s efforts to pursue justice in the matter. A senior official from the Biden administration conveyed that they were “shocked and horrified” by the visuals of the attack. Vedant Patel, the Deputy Spokesperson of the State Department, further emphasized the US’s profound sympathies for the survivors of this heinous act of gender-based violence.
According to a report by news agency PTI, Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself denounced such violence against women, highlighting its shameful nature in any civilized society. The US administration echoed this sentiment, endorsing a peaceful and inclusive resolution to the ongoing violence in Manipur. They encouraged authorities to address the humanitarian needs and safeguard the lives and property of all groups involved.
The incident, which occurred on May 4, involved the naked parade and subsequent gang-rape of two Kuki women by a mob in the Thoubal district of Manipur. The video of the incident surfaced nearly two months later, leading to nationwide outrage and condemnation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The attack took place amidst clashes in Churachandpur, where the Kuki community protested against a proposal to grant scheduled tribe status to the dominant Meitei community. These clashes marked the beginning of ethnic violence in the state, resulting in over 160 fatalities and several injuries since May 3, when a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organized in the hill districts to oppose the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
In light of these developments, the Manipuri diaspora in the United States has urged for an immediate cessation of violence in the state and the imposition of President’s rule to restore law and order in Manipur. The situation remains tense, and the call for peace and justice echoes both within India and from international communities.