IT Correspondent
Jiribam, Nov 21:
In a significant development, the Joint Action Committee (JAC) representing the families of the victims of the brutal killings in Jiribam has announced its decision to claim the bodies of the deceased on Friday. This announcement follows a press conference where committee members detailed their discussions with government authorities regarding the tragic deaths of Kh. Athouba and eight innocent civilians, including six women and children, who were allegedly killed by Kuki militants.
During the press meet, JAC representatives reiterated their commitment to seeking justice and accountability. Shyamkumar Mutum, a Convenor of the JAC, highlighted that the government has made several assurances to address their demands. These include the suspension of Senior Superintendent of Police Nectar Sanjenbam, who is accused of killing Kh. Athouba, and the establishment of a two-member inquiry committee tasked with investigating the circumstances surrounding the deadly incident that occurred on Sunday night.
The JAC also received confirmation from the government regarding the provision of suitable government jobs for the families of the deceased, along with ex-gratia payments.
Y. Sanjoy Singh, the Convenor of the JAC against brutal killing of eight innocent civilians, revealed that the post-mortem examinations for the eight deceased have been completed. The bodies will be retrieved from Silchar Medical College and Hospital, where they have been held since the incident.
In addition to these measures, the JAC has demanded the arrest of the Kuki-Zo-Hmar militants involved in the Jakuradhor attack and has called for the case to be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Sanjoy Singh emphasized the urgency of these demands, stating that the JAC is committed to ensuring that justice is served.
Furthermore, the JAC has insisted on the declaration of Hmar village volunteers as terrorists, a request to which the government has reportedly agreed. Authorities have indicated that they will classify the Hmar village volunteers as an unlawful organization or terrorist group within seven days.
The committee’s efforts have led to a collaborative understanding with the government, paving the way for the last rites of the victims to be conducted with full honors in Jiribam. The JAC has also called for the unconditional release of individuals arrested in Imphal during protests against the brutal killings.
The last rites for the eight civilians, along with Kh. Athouba, are set to take place at Ningsingkhul, Jiribam, providing an opportunity for the community to pay their respects.
The JAC has expressed that they will ensure the ceremonies are conducted with dignity and reverence, honoring the memories of those who lost their lives in this tragic incident.
