MCPCR seeks report on involving children in Totomsana's arrest
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, June 27 2024:
Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) has taken suo motu cognizance of an incident that occurred on June 26, involving a police operation from Imphal airport to Keishampat portion of Tiddim Road, Imphal West and sought detailed reports from the Imphal West superintendent of police and the Social Welfare director.
In a letter addressed to the two officers, MCPCR said that the incident, which has been widely circulated on social media and covered by print and electronic media, involved a scuffle between police personnel and an individual identified as Moirangthem Totomsana, also known as Nongsaba, from Heirok village.
As a statutory body under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act (CPCR Act), 2005, MCPCR is empowered to monitor the rights and safeguards for children.
The Commission is particularly concerned about the impact of the incident on Totomsana's minor children, who were present during the police operation.
The children were seen running in the midst of crowded traffic, crying for their father's release, and reportedly experienced momentary fainting due to the violent scene.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by police personnel in intercepting and apprehending the accused, MCPCR emphasised the necessity of adhering to legal protocols, especially when children are involved.
The Commission highlighted that all actions taken during such operations must comply with laws and norms designed to protect childrens rights.
In light of these concerns, MCPCR requested a detailed factual report of the incident from the SP, and the social welfare director within five days of receiving the request.
The Commission is legally bound to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to safeguard the well-being of the children involved and to review compliance of the protocols during the police operation, it pointed out.