The Meitei Alliance has called for immediate legal action against those responsible for the reported abduction of civilians in Ukhrul district, stating that the safe recovery of the victims should not replace the need for justice.
In a statement issued TODAY, the organisation noted media reports that the civilians who were allegedly abducted and held captive near Shangkai have now been handed over to the police. While acknowledging that the development may have brought relief to the affected families, the group said the seriousness of the incident remains unchanged.
According to the statement, the reported abduction of innocent civilians, including women, children and elderly persons, constitutes a grave act of intimidation and cannot be treated as a minor disturbance. The organisation stated that such incidents undermine public confidence in the rule of law and challenge the authority of the state if they are not followed by firm legal action.
Initial reports on March 11 indicated that around 20 civilians were held captive in the area. The organisation also referred to remarks by the Chief Minister of Manipur, Khemchand Singh, who had reportedly stated that strict action would be taken against those responsible.
The Meitei Alliance urged authorities to move beyond statements and assurances and take immediate steps to identify, arrest and prosecute every individual involved in the alleged abduction. It stated that while the safe recovery of the victims is important, it should not become a substitute for holding the perpetrators accountable under the law.
The organisation also expressed concern over what it described as a growing perception that the security apparatus has failed to act with the neutrality and firmness expected in dealing with armed violence.
Calling for decisive action, the Meitei Alliance urged both the Government of India and the Government of Manipur to ensure that those responsible for the incident are brought to justice and that such acts of abduction and intimidation are not allowed to recur.