Closely monitoring human rights violation during lockdown: MHRC
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 10 2020: Manipur Human Right Commission (MHRC) is hearing complaints and taking up necessary measures to protect human rights during the lockdown, said it's Acting Chairperson, Khaidem Mani today.

Addressing media persons at his residence at Singjamei, he maintained that Manipur Human Right Commission has received several complaints of alleged excessive actions by police personnel during the lockdown due to COVID-19.Even though the commission's office is closed due to the lockdown, it is hearing the complaints at home.

All necessary actions are being taken up to commence regular functioning from April 13 onwards, he said.

Observing the number of COVID-19 cases in the State and the hardship people are facing, he opined that the State may relax the lockdown to some extent.

He suggested that the markets can be make functional following even-odd basis.

He also expressed hope that the Government will discuss minutely about the developing situation with experts and come out with concrete plans soon to alleviate the suffering of the people due to the lockdown.

Commenting on the complaints the commission received regarding welfare of the drug users, he informed that the commission has directed the Government and authorities concerned to convert private rehabilitation centres into quarantine centres.

He further maintained that police personnel should strictly adhere to the guidelines of the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI) while enforcing the lockdown.

According to the CHRI guidelines, police should take required precautionary measures against the virus.

Police are not only involved in enforcing the lockdown but also in the distribution of food to the needy.

They should avoid unnecessary arrests and excessive force.

Lockdown violators should be given proper advice and released.

They should give full cooperation to the essential services provider.

Police, CSOs and public should cooperate and maintain healthy relationship to successfully enforce the lockdown and combat coronavirus, he said.

Comment