Northeast Desk, 24th July: Women’s organisations from the Kuki-Zo community have called for a Supreme Court-monitored investigation into the alleged extra-judicial killings of three youths by Assam Police. In a memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights and the Hmar Women Association detailed their concerns about the deaths of Lallungawi Hmar, Lalbieklien Hmar, and K. Joshua Lalrinsang in Assam’s Cachar district.
“We are completely shocked by the appalling facts that have come to light during our inquiry,” stated Rebecca Hmar, President of the Hmar Women Association. The memorandum alleges gross violations of human rights and fundamental protections guaranteed by the Constitution.
The women’s groups argue that video evidence contradicts the official police narrative of a shootout with militants. “The Assam Police lied regarding the cause of death of the victims, which we believe they did so to evade any further investigation that could expose the heinous crimes they had committed,” the memorandum asserts. “The videos clearly show the men cooperating during the arrest. They posed no threat to anyone.”
In response to these allegations, protests erupted across several locations in Manipur today. Simultaneous rallies were held in Churachandpur, Haflong, Senvon, Chandel, and Jiribam, with thousands demanding justice for the deceased.
Read More: Assam: Man Surrenders After Allegedly Killing Wife in Karimganj