Imphal, July 21: In a shocking and heinous incident, Manipur Police have arrested four individuals in connection with a viral video that depicted the horrifying sight of two women being stripped naked, held, groped, and dragged by a mob of men to a field. The arrests have been made in the Nongpok Sekmai police station area of Thoubal District, Manipur. The authorities have assured the public that they are making an all-out effort to apprehend all the culprits involved in this gruesome crime.
The Disturbing Incident
The incident occurred on May 4 in the Thoubal district when two Kuki women were subjected to a horrifying ordeal. They were paraded naked by a mob and later subjected to gang rape. The incident took place amidst clashes in Churachandpur, where the Kuki community protested against a proposal to grant scheduled tribe status to the Meitei community.
Four main accused arrested in the Viral Video Case :
03 (three) more main accused of the heinous crime of abduction and gangrape under Nongpok Sekmai PS, Thoubal District have been arrested today. So total 04 (four) persons have been arrested till now.
1/2
— Manipur Police (@manipur_police) July 20, 2023
The Viral Video and National Outrage
Nearly two months after the incident, the video of this appalling act surfaced on social media platforms, sparking outrage across the country. The graphic footage triggered widespread anger and condemnation, drawing sharp comments from Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well.
Manipur Police Takes Suo Moto Cognizance
In response to the viral video, Manipur Police acted promptly and took suo moto cognizance of the matter on July 19. A case was registered at the Nongpok Sekmai police station, and the accused were charged with abduction, gang rape, and murder in connection with the horrifying incident.
Also Read: Protests Erupt in Assam After Tragic Death of Female Resident: A Call for Justice
Arrests and Ongoing Investigations
On Thursday, Manipur Police announced the arrest of four main accused in connection with the viral video case. The police authorities stated that they are continuing their raids and making every effort to apprehend all the culprits involved in this gruesome crime.
Government’s Response and Assurances
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the incident in the strongest possible terms and vowed that the government would not spare anyone involved in this heinous act. He assured the public that exemplary punishment would be given to all those found guilty, and the government is even considering the possibility of seeking capital punishment for the perpetrators.
Community Unity and Social Outrage
The incident has sent shockwaves through the state of Manipur, and there has been an outpouring of grief and anger from citizens across the country. People from all walks of life are expressing their solidarity with the victims and demanding swift justice for the heinous crime. The incident has also highlighted the urgent need for societal awareness, sensitization, and measures to prevent such brutal acts of violence against women.
The Manipur viral video incident has shaken the nation’s conscience and serves as a stark reminder of the grave challenges that women continue to face in terms of safety and security. Law enforcement agencies and the judicial system must ensure a speedy and fair trial for the accused, bringing them to justice.
Additionally, efforts must be intensified to address the underlying issues and root causes that contribute to such acts of violence against women in society. Only through collective action, community unity, and stringent measures can we strive to create a safer and more compassionate environment for all citizens, irrespective of gender, in our country.