In a significant development in the Manipur viral video case, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a chargesheet against six accused and submitted a report regarding one ‘child in conflict with law.’ The case, which came to light on May 4, involved a horrifying incident in which a mob of approximately 900-1,000 armed individuals, wielding sophisticated weapons, wreaked havoc on B Phainom village in Kangpokpi district, Manipur. The mob’s rampage included vandalizing and setting houses ablaze, looting properties, assaulting villagers, committing murders, and sexually assaulting women.
Reports indicated that three women were subjected to a degrading act of being paraded naked, and a 21-year-old woman was allegedly gang-raped by the mob. Tragically, the incident also resulted in the loss of two lives, who were family members of one of the victims.
The CBI’s involvement in the case was initiated at the request of the Manipur government, and it officially took over the investigation on June 21. According to the central agency, their extensive investigation led to the identification of six individuals allegedly involved in the heinous acts. The chargesheet was filed before the Special Judge, CBI Court, Guwahati, in accordance with the orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court.
It’s worth noting that the investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to identify any additional accused individuals involved in the various offenses committed during the May 4 incident. The CBI remains dedicated to uncovering the full scope of the case.
In a statement, the CBI emphasized the need to abide by Indian law, which presumes the accused individuals to be innocent until proven guilty through a fair trial. The agency reiterated that the findings and charges are based on their thorough investigation and the evidence collected.
The violence in Manipur on May 3 and 4, sparked by protests against proposed changes to the state’s reservation matrix, has had far-reaching consequences. At least 178 people have lost their lives, and around 50,000 residents have been displaced due to the unrest. The protests and clashes emerged after tribal groups protested against a proposed modification granting scheduled tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community.
As the legal process unfolds, the people of Manipur hope for justice and accountability in the aftermath of these distressing events, which have had a profound impact on the region.
Sources By Agencies
