The Manipur International Youth Centre (MIYC) has called for an immediate end to attacks on civilians in Manipur, urging all armed groups and individuals involved in the conflict to stop targeting women, children and other non-combatants.
In a statement issued by its president Mk. Saroj Khan, the MIYC said civilians had borne the brunt of the violence since May 3, 2023, with people killed, injured, displaced and traumatised, while homes, villages and public property were destroyed.
The organisation condemned attacks on civilians irrespective of the ethnic, political or organisational identity of those involved, maintaining that political or territorial objectives cannot justify violence against non-combatants.
The MIYC invoked international humanitarian law, particularly Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, which establishes minimum protections for persons taking no active part in hostilities, including prohibitions on murder, torture, cruel treatment and hostage-taking. India’s Geneva Conventions Act, 1960, is also the domestic legislation implementing specified obligations and offences under the Geneva Conventions.
The organisation expressed particular concern over the impact of the conflict on women and children and called for prompt, independent and impartial investigation into killings, disappearances, sexual violence, abductions, arson and other alleged violations.
It also demanded an end to the obstruction of highways and other essential routes when such blockades prevent civilians from accessing food, medicines, healthcare and other necessities. The MIYC said humanitarian access should not be used as a political instrument.
The organisation urged the governments of India and Manipur to ensure civilian protection, preserve evidence and prosecute those responsible for serious violations without discrimination or political interference. It also called on law-enforcement agencies and human-rights organisations to document alleged violations and support victims.
The MIYC stressed that justice must not depend on the identity of either victims or alleged perpetrators and appealed to all armed actors to stop attacks on civilians, burning homes, abductions and destruction of civilian property.
It said political disputes must be addressed through peaceful means, while the protection of civilian lives must remain an immediate obligation.