Imphal, March 19, 2006: The Churachandpur based Hmar Inpui, apex body of the Hmar community, has given its full backing to the allegations that a number of Hmar women were raped by cadres of the UNLF and the KCP in Tipaimukh subdivision of Churachandpur district earlier this year.
After an extensive investigation, and interviews carried out with the victims and their families, the Hmar Inpui unequivocally declared that these Hmar women, including minors as young as 13, were raped by cadres of the UNLF and KCP, a statement issued by the organisation said.
Such horrendous acts are crimes against our dignity and rights as a people, and as human beings, the Hmar Inpui said.
It also condemned the indiscriminate planting of landmines by these same elements that have already killed and permanently maimed many people.
Taking a firm stance, it said it has noted with regret the `pathetic and frantic` denials of truth by the UNLF and the KCP on the issue. We consider denial of truth a cowardly act, it said.
Condemning the crimes in the strongest possible terms, the Hmar Inpui demanded the perpetrators be identified and given adequate punishment.
It also sought adequate security and immediate compensation for the rape victims, and their families, including medical and proper counselling.
The Hmar Inpui further demanded adequate security and relief and compensation for the people who have fled the area to enable them to retun to their homes, as well as long-term security and development projects in the area.
It also asked that de-mining work should be taken up on an immediate basis to clear the area of all landmines indiscriminately planted by the underground elements.
While welcoming the chief minister’s statement that a judicial inquiry would be instituted in the matter, it demanded that the government ensure a transparent inquiry, free from any outside influence, particularly from the perpetrators of the crime.
Expressing regret over the total absence of government machinery to protect the innocent villagers from the militants, it said it expects the government to assume its bounden duty more responsibly in protecting the lives of its citizens from these lawless elements.
Stating that the Hmar Inpui unequivocally stands for the integrity of the country and the maintenance of secured environment where all communities co-exist in peace and harmony, it appealed to all communities to condemn those who committed the crimes and bring pressure on them to stop challenging the atmosphere of peaceful coexistence and communal harmony.
The Hmar Inpui also expects an unconditional apology from the perpetrators of the crimes, the statement further said.
Source: Imphal Fress Press