JAC suspends stir, MHRC conducts spot enquiry
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, January 16 2022: With the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Imphal West district DC, SP and the JAC formed in connection with the death/killing of Abujam John and Abujam Sashikanta, the protest launched by the JAC has been suspended.

The lifeless bodies of Abujam John and Sashikanta which were lying at RIMS morgue will be taken by the bereaved family to perform their last rites on Monday.

Speaking in this regard, JAC convenor Y Rabi informed that representatives of the JAC met CM N Biren, Imphal West DC, SP and Wangoi MLA O Lukhoi at the CM's bungalow around 4pm on Sunday.

After discussion, an MoU was signed with Imphal West DC and SP assuring to fulfill the demands of the JAC.

As such, the JAC suspended the protest immediately, he continued, while adding that the bodies of John and Sashikanta will also be taken on Monday to perform their final rites.

Meanwhile, Manipur Human Right Commission (MHRC) officials led by acting chairperson Khaidem Mani on Sunday visited Samurou Awang Leikai, the site where Abujam John and Abujam Sashikanta were shot at on January 9.The rights body also called on family members of the victims, the JAC formed in connection with the killing case and the investigating police team.

The MHRC team first met with the family members of the victims and heard their complaints followed by meeting JAC convener Y Rabi to hear their grievances and demands, inspection of the incident site and discussion with the case's investigation officer SDPO Mayang Imphal and Wangoi police station OC for an update on progress of the investigation.

Speaking on the sidelines of the visit, Khaidem Mani explained that it was aimed at collecting first-hand knowledge of the incident.

During the visit, the MHRC was informed about the wishes of the victims' families along with demands of the JAC which include delivery of justice to the victims and punishment of the perpetrators, he said and confided about the SDPO and the OC revealing that the investigation is progressing satisfactorily.

As no one has not been arrested so far in connection with the case, the public ought to extent cooperation to the police and share whatever they have witnessed on the day, Khaidern Mani stressed, adding that public assistance would help in ensuring deliverance of justice at the earliest possible.

The acting chairperson also assured that the Commission will recommend to the government for agreeing to the JAC's demands of setting up a police outpost and installing CCTV cameras, along with providing interim compensation on humanitarian ground.

Meanwhile, in continuation to JAC's agitation demanding justice for the killings, Mayai Lambi road was blocked by protestors till Sunday noon.

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