Condemnation of Human Rights Violations and Abduction of Children and Women
- November 15th, 2024, Seoul, South Korea : Korea Manipuri Association (KMA) -

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Condemnation of Human Rights Violations and Abduction of Children and Women by Armed Kuki-Zo-Hmar Militants

The Korea Manipuri Association (KMA) vehemently condemns the recent abduction of six Meitei family members, including women and children, by armed Kuki-Zo-Hmar militants in Jakuradhor Karong, Borobekra, Jiribam on 11e of November 2024. This heinous act represents a blatant violation of human rights, leaving innocent civilians, including elderly women, a toddler, and young children, in captivity and instilling deep fear within the community.

Among those abducted are an elderly woman, Yulembam Rani Devi (60), a toddler, Laishram Lamnganba (8 months), and two young children, Laishram Chingheinganba (2 years) and Telam Thajamanbi Devi (8 years). These innocent individuals pose no threat to any party, and their abduction underscores a severe disregard for humanitarian principles and human rights.

Korea Manipuri Association (KMA) also strongly condemns the brutal killing of two elderly individuals, Laishram Bard Singh (63) and Maibam Kesho (71), in Modhupur, Borobekra, Jiribam on 11 November 2024. This tragic incident, occurring during an encounter with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), has instilled deep fear and distress among the local community.

Despite 18 months of escalating violence and repeated appeals for action, state and central authorities have failed to provide adequate security or safeguard civilian lives. This ongoing inaction has left communities vulnerable and raises urgent concerns about protecting basic human rights in Manipur. Despite the deployment of 60,000 paramilitary forces in the region, continued violence casts serious doubt on the effectiveness of current security measures.

How can militants operate so freely, repeatedly targeting civilians, in the midst of such a substantial security presence?

We urgently call on the government and Civil Society Organizations (CS0s) of the Kuki-Zo-Hmar community to address these violations, secure the safe return of those abducted, and take meaningful steps to restore peace. It is imperative that all citizens, especially the most vulnerable, are protected against violence and that the cycle of terror is broken.

With unwavering hope and solidarity,

Nahakpam Bidhan
President Korea Manipuri Association (KMA)

Kshetrimayum Krishnadash
Secy Korea Manipuri Association (KMA)