MHRC takes up suo moto case
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 12 2022:
The Manipur Human Rights Commission has taken up a suo motu case against the extension of disturbed area status in the State excluding Imphal Municipal area for another year.
Addressing the media at Lamphelpat today, MHRC Acting Chairperson Khaidem Mani said that the case has been taken up under Section 12 of Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 .
Saying the proceeding of the suo moto case questions the rationale for extending disturbed area tag for a year, K Mani said that the Chief Secretary, Special Secretary (Home) and Commissioner (Law) of the State have been directed to give their response on or before February 2 .
The queries raised by the MHRC include whether the notification extending disturbed area status under Section 3 of AFSPA was issued on December 8, 2021; was there any serious breach of law and order in between January 1 and December 31, 2021 and do the State Government have the authority to take ex facto approve removal of AFSPA.
Saying that the Commission has directed all concerned to consult on the prospect of peace and withdrawal of disturbed area status, K Mani maintained that no Presidents, Prime Ministers, top brass of Indian Army or Opposition leaders have ever suggested use of military strength to suppress insurgency in the 70 years history of Independent India.
On poll related violence, K Mani informed that the MHRC had taken up a suo motu case regarding the killings at Heirok and Samurou which have claimed three lives.
The Commission will probe to ascertain whether there were any security lapses to check poll violence.