IT News
Imphal, Dec 10:
The Civil Society Coalition on Human Rights in Manipur and the United Nations (CSCHR), in collaboration with the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MPCCR), observed International Human Rights Day at the Manipur Press Club today. The event featured prominent figures such as Khaidem Mani, former Chairperson of the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC); Keisham Pradip, Chairman of MPCCR; Joy Chingakham, a human rights defender; Kangujam Ranjit, President of FIDAM; Khuraijam Athouba, Working President of IPSA; Edina Yengkhom, Secretary of EEVFAM; and Phullindro Konsam, Chairman of the Committee on Human Rights Manipur, as presidium members.
During the observance, Keisham Pradip emphasized the pressing human rights issues in the state. He highlighted that prolonged internet bans and curfews constitute violations of basic human rights, urging the government to ensure justice as a pathway to restoring peace. Pradip stressed that civil, political, and human rights must be protected by the state—whether the responsibility lies with the state government or the central government. He appealed for the fair and equitable protection of rights for all communities without discrimination.
Pradip pointed out that the government must prioritize the rights and welfare of nearly 60,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) as a result of the ongoing conflict in Manipur. Ensuring the human rights of these IDPs involves providing adequate necessities in relief camps and facilitating their safe return to their homes. “Arranging for the safe return of IDPs would be a meaningful way to observe International Human Rights Day,” Pradip remarked.
He also criticized the state for its inability to protect civilians, especially women and children, and lamented the escalating prices of essential commodities. Such failures, he said, represent severe violations of human rights. Pradip called upon both the central and state governments to uphold the rights of all communities and deliver justice to the aggrieved.
Referring to the recent Jiribam tragedy where three women and three minors, including an eight-month-old infant, were taken hostage and later murdered, Pradip recounted MPCCR’s efforts to address the crisis. Upon learning of the abduction, the MPCCR issued an urgent appeal for the safe release of the hostages. After the tragic discovery of their deaths, the MPCCR immediately contacted the National Women’s Commission (NWC) and the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) to intervene and ensure the safety and rights of women and children in Manipur.
Pradip acknowledged the proactive response from the NWC, which sent a team to investigate the situation, but noted the NCPCR faced challenges due to a vacancy in its Chairperson’s position. Nevertheless, he assured that efforts are ongoing to ensure justice for the affected children. Additionally, a team from MPCCR, led by Pradip himself, is visiting Jiribam to assess the conditions of children across all communities affected by the violence.
The observance of International Human Rights Day amidst such turmoil served as a platform to call for urgent action from the authorities. Speakers unanimously stressed the need for justice, equitable treatment, and the protection of human rights as essential steps to rebuild trust and ensure peace in Manipur.
