Charges Filed Against Six in Manipur Ethnic Violence Case

Court Proceedings in Guwahati

Guwahati, Jan 8: A special court in Guwahati has officially charged six individuals in connection with a disturbing incident involving the assault of three women during ethnic violence in Manipur in May 2023.

Judge Chatra Bhukan Gogoi has scheduled the next hearing for January 16, requiring all accused, including four currently detained in a Manipur prison, to appear in person. The remaining two individuals are out on bail.

On January 2, the court outlined 15 specific charges against the accused, as detailed in the order available to the public.

This case revolves around the violent events of May 4, 2023, when the three victims were subjected to public humiliation, with two of them reportedly gang-raped, while family members of one victim were killed.

The incident gained widespread attention after a video surfaced online, revealing the horrific acts.

In the court's order, it was stated, “After reviewing all evidence, including witness statements and documents, the court concludes there is sufficient prima facie evidence against all accused.”

Consequently, charges were established against the defendants under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.

Upon reading the charges, the accused pleaded not guilty and requested a trial.

The charges include serious offenses such as murder, gang-rape, assault with intent to disrobe, rioting, and promoting discord between the Meitei and Kuki communities, as well as destruction of property.

Additionally, they face charges under the SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act for disrobing and parading women from these communities.

“You are hereby ordered to stand trial for these charges,” the court concluded.