The ongoing Monsoon Session of the Indian Parliament, which began on Thursday, came to an abrupt standstill as the shocking incident from Manipur witnessed public outcry after a video showing two women being paraded naked and molested surfaced on July 19.
The harrowing incident resonated strongly within the hallowed halls of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, on Thursday and as a mark of respect to recently deceased members, both houses adjourned their proceedings.
Modi says guilty will be punished
Amidst the solemn adjournment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the media and voiced his condemnation of the appalling incident that took place in Manipur.
“Today when I have come among you, standing near this temple of democracy, my heart is filled with pain and anger. The incident that has come to light in Manipur is a shameful incident for any civilised society. …What has happened to the daughters of Manipur can never be forgiven. The incident is shameful for the country, the guilty will not be spared,” he said.
The disturbing video, which surfaced on July 19, captured a furious mob stripping the two women naked and dragging them to a paddy field, where they were subjected to further molestation. The incident reportedly occurred on May 4 in Kangkopi district, as per a complaint associated with the case.
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum, condemning the heinous act, revealed that the victims belonged to the Kuki-Zo tribe, while the perpetrators were identified as Meiteis.
Singh under pressure says capital punishment for those responsible
Union Home Minister Amit Shah engaged in a telephonic conversation with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Thursday and directed the Chief Minister to take stringent measures against all those involved in the incident, emphasising the need for prompt arrests and ensuring that the law deals with the culprits appropriately.
As per a news report, Singh has declared the first arrest in connection with the incident. He reassured the public that stringent measures would be taken against all those responsible, and he further stated that the option of capital punishment is being considered.
In a tweet posted on Thursday, Chief Minister Biren Singh said, “We are currently conducting a comprehensive investigation, and we will ensure severe action is taken against all those involved, including the possibility of considering capital punishment.”
