Manipur: Kuki students’ body demands justice on Human Rights Day, alleges 'systemic bias' against minority community

The Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO), Sadar Hills, urged the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India to initiate an unbiased investigation into severe human rights violations against the minority Kuki-Zo community.  

At a protest in Gamgiphai, Kuki-Zo women rallied under the KSO’s banner, decrying what they described as systemic violence in the ongoing ethnic conflict. Protesters highlighted acts of sexual assault, murder, and arson, claiming these crimes were carried out with impunity. They condemned the lack of accountability and investigative progress, asserting that the violence reflects a broader agenda to marginalize their community.  

KSO leaders called on the NHRC to fulfill its mandate by conducting impartial investigations and ensuring justice for victims. “These are not isolated incidents but part of a deliberate campaign to undermine our community’s dignity and existence,” emphasized a KSO representative.  

Bebeck, Women Coordinator for KSO Sadar Hills, drew attention to the prolonged silence surrounding the Kuki-Zo community’s plight. “More than 19 months have passed, and human rights in Manipur appear to have been redefined as ‘Meitei rights,’” she stated. Bebeck highlighted the denial of fundamental rights, including dignified burials for victims, since the start of 2023.  

The organization submitted a memorandum to the NHRC Chairperson via the Kangpokpi Deputy Commissioner, listing names of victims:  
- David Thiek Hmar (32)
- Florence Nengpichong Hangshing (27) and Olivia Lhingneithem Chongloi (23)
- Tonsing Hangshing (7) 
- Kamlengsat Lunkim (25) and Kamminlal Lupheng (23)
- Zosangkim Hmar (30)

The memorandum also detailed numerous cases of murder, mutilation, and arson targeting women, children, and the elderly, with several victims' remains yet to be recovered, denying families the chance to perform last rites.  

Copies of the memorandum were also sent to the United Nations Human Rights Commission, the Chief Justice of India, and the Supreme Court’s Justice Mittal Committee.  

KSO representatives emphasized the need for intervention at the highest levels, asserting that continued neglect by investigative agencies erodes faith in the rule of law. “We demand justice, accountability, and respect for human rights to prevent further atrocities against the Kuki-Zo community,” they said.