Modi's public comments followed his extended silence on the issue, which had drawn criticism from opposition parties and civil rights groups. The Prime Minister condemned the atrocities, particularly highlighting the viral video depicting the brutal assault of two women from the Kuki community. Modi declared the incident "unforgivable," emphasizing that the perpetrators would face severe consequences.
The violence in Manipur, initially sparked by a controversy over affirmative action, has primarily involved the Meitei and Kuki communities. The Meiteis, a predominantly Hindu group, demanded special status to purchase land in hill areas, leading to protests from the Christian-majority Kuki community. The conflict has led to the formation of armed militias and the displacement of over 60,000 people, with many seeking refuge in relief camps.
During the meeting, Biren Singh reported on the arrests made in connection to the assault, underscoring the government's commitment to thorough investigations and strict actions against the perpetrators. Singh also mentioned that the state's internet blackout, intended to curb violence, had complicated communication and law enforcement efforts.
The Indian Supreme Court has expressed grave concerns over the state's handling of the situation. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud warned the government to take decisive action, indicating that the court would intervene if necessary to uphold justice and human rights.
The international community has also responded to the crisis. The European Parliament recently passed a resolution urging Indian authorities to protect religious minorities and end the violence, a move that India's Foreign Ministry criticized as interference in domestic affairs.
India's Women and Child Development Minister, Smriti Irani, condemned the violence and assured that no effort would be spared in bringing the assailants to justice. Meanwhile, opposition leaders, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, have continued to pressure Modi to address the violence in Parliament.
The Manipur conflict reflects broader challenges in India's northeast, where ethnic and religious tensions often intersect with political and social issues. As Modi and Singh work towards resolving the crisis, the focus remains on restoring peace and ensuring justice for the victims.
The meeting between Modi and Singh is a critical step in addressing the immediate violence and exploring long-term solutions to the region's deep-seated issues. Their efforts will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers, highlighting the importance of effective governance and the protection of human rights in conflict zones.