Imphal, Aug 26 (PTI) In response to claims made by the Delhi-based non-profit organisation, PUCL, former Manipur Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, expressed concerns over a report alleging that the ethnic violence in Manipur was "orchestrated and not spontaneous."
Singh cautioned that such claims could widen the existing divide, deepen mistrust, and potentially promote misunderstandings. The ethnic violence, which began in May 2023, has resulted in the loss of over 260 lives and left thousands homeless, affecting communities like the Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and Kukis from the adjoining hills.
BJP's Rajya Sabha MP, Leishemba Sanajaoba, added that "more than 3,000 FIRs" are planned against PUCL for such claims. The remarks took shape after Human Rights International Freedom (HRIF), an Imphal-based human rights group, also threatened legal measures against PUCL regarding their assertions.
The report in question ensued from a PUCL study, authored under Justice Kurian Joseph, which spanned 694 pages and posited that "the violence was not spontaneous but orchestrated." HRIF criticized the report in a letter, asserting that it is "blatantly one-sided," filled with "unverified facts, misinformation," and a bias towards the Kuki community.
The HRIF contended that the document omitted the narrative, facts, and sufferings of the Meitei community. Additionally, HRIF claimed it "contains unverified and inflammatory allegations" and could "exacerbate tensions" as well as "promote enmity" among different groups in Manipur.
Singh concluded, "Kudos to HRIF for taking the initiative. I foresee many unbiased organizations joining the legal actions against PUCL for its divisive report." He emphasized that during times when Manipur seeks healing and reconciliation, these publications only serve to increase division and mistrust, potentially promoting misunderstanding.
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