The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken a significant step towards justice by filing a charge sheet against seven accused individuals in connection with the looting of arms and ammunition from the Bishnupur police armoury during the Manipur ethnic violence last year. This development sheds light on the events that unfolded during a tumultuous period in the state.
The Accused
The individuals named in the charge sheet are as follows:
- Laishram Prem Singh
- Khumukcham Dhiren (alias Thapkpa)
- Moirangthem Anand Singh
- Athokpam Kajit (alias Kishorjit)
- Loukrakpam Michael Mangangcha (alias Michael)
- Konthoujam Romojit Meitei (alias Romojit)
- Keisham Johnson (alias Johnson)
The Incident
On August 3 of the previous year, a mob executed a daring heist, looting more than 300 weapons and 19,800 rounds of ammunition from two rooms within the 2nd Indian Reserve Battalion headquarters at Naranseina in Bishnupur. The stolen cache included:
- Approximately 9,000 bullets of different calibers
- An AK series assault rifle
- Three ‘Ghaatak’ rifles
- 195 self-loading rifles
- Five MP-5 guns
- 16.9 mm pistols
- 25 bulletproof jackets
- 21 carbines
- 124 hand grenades
These arms and ammunition were pilfered by the mob, which had gathered to march towards Churachandpur. The purpose of this march was to carry out a mass burial for tribal people who lost their lives during the ethnic clashes that erupted in Manipur on May 3 of the same year.
The Ethnic Divide
The Manipur violence stemmed from a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ organized in the hill districts. The march was a response to the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The Meiteis, constituting about 53% of Manipur’s population, predominantly reside in the Imphal Valley. On the other hand, the Nagas and Kukis, accounting for a little over 40%, inhabit the hill districts.
The clashes resulted in the loss of 219 lives, and several hundred people sustained injuries. Amidst this turmoil, the looting of arms from the Bishnupur police armoury further exacerbated tensions.
Legal Proceedings
The CBI’s charge sheet, recently filed before the court of chief judicial magistrate in Kamrup (Metro), Assam’s Guwahati, marks a crucial step in holding the accused accountable. The legal process aims to unravel the events leading up to the looting and ensure justice for the victims.
As the case progresses, it underscores the importance of maintaining peace, fostering dialogue, and addressing the underlying issues that fuel ethnic tensions. The accused individuals now await trial, and the eyes of justice remain focused on the outcome.
Disclaimer: This Article is based on media reports for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers are encouraged to follow official updates and consult legal experts for accurate information.
