2 Brothers Witness Brutal Killing of 6 Family Members in Jiribam Manipur

Manipur, a northeastern state in India, has been grappling with ethnic tensions that have led to tragic incidents of violence. One of the most heart-wrenching events unfolded in Jiribam district on November 11, 2024, when two young brothers, aged 12 and 10, became eyewitnesses to the brutal abduction and killing of six family members by suspected Kuki militants. This horrifying incident has left the region in shock, reigniting demands for justice and peace.

The Devastating Attack

On the fateful day, the assailants arrived in auto-rickshaws, carrying firearms and other weapons. They attacked the victims’ home, shooting indiscriminately and setting houses ablaze. The two brothers, who survived the ordeal, recalled how their family members were forcibly taken at gunpoint. The older brother managed to escape, hiding with his uncle and aunt in a paddy field, from where he witnessed his mother and sister being abducted.

The victims included:

• Telem Thoiboi Devi (their mother)
• Telem Thajamanbi Devi (their 8-year-old sister)
• Laishram Langamba Singh (a 10-month-old infant)
• Their grandmother
• An aunt
• Two cousins

Discovery of the Bodies

A few days later, the lifeless bodies of the kidnapped family members were discovered in the Barak River. The autopsy reports revealed horrifying details of the violence they endured. The 10-month-old infant, Laishram Langamba Singh, had a gunshot wound to the knee, stab injuries to the chest, and blunt force trauma to the jaw. His 8-year-old sister suffered a bullet wound that pierced her heart and lungs. Their mother, Telem Thoiboi Devi, was shot multiple times, and her head was crushed.

Eyewitness Account

The surviving brothers shared their traumatic experience, highlighting the brutality of the attack. They described how the armed men showed no mercy, targeting women, children, and elderly family members. The older brother’s escape was a narrow one, as he and a few others managed to hide while the militants continued their rampage.

Impact on Manipur

This incident has deepened the ethnic divide in Manipur, where clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have been ongoing for months. The killings in Jiribam have sparked widespread protests, with people demanding immediate action against the perpetrators. The state government has condemned the act and assured the public that justice will be served. However, the situation remains tense, with many fearing further violence.

Ethnic Violence in Manipur

The violence in Jiribam is a grim reminder of the ethnic strife that has plagued Manipur for decades. The recent clashes began in May 2024, stemming from demands for Scheduled Tribe status by the Meitei community. This sparked opposition from the Kuki community, leading to violent confrontations that have displaced thousands and claimed hundreds of lives.

Despite peace talks and government interventions, the situation remains volatile. Internet services have been suspended multiple times to prevent the spread of inflammatory content, and curfews are frequently imposed in affected areas.

Government’s Response

The Manipur government has promised a thorough investigation into the Jiribam killings. Security forces have intensified their operations in the region to apprehend the culprits. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has condemned the act, calling it a “heinous crime against humanity.”

The Union government has also expressed concern over the rising violence in Manipur. Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently held discussions with state officials to review the security situation and explore ways to restore peace.

Demands for Justice

Civil society organizations, local leaders, and activists have demanded swift justice for the victims of the Jiribam tragedy. Protests have erupted across the state, with demonstrators calling for better protection for vulnerable communities and stricter actions against militant groups.

Many have pointed out the need for long-term solutions to address the root causes of ethnic violence in Manipur. This includes improving inter-community relations, providing equitable development opportunities, and ensuring that justice is delivered to victims of past atrocities.

A Call for Peace

The Jiribam incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of ethnic violence. It highlights the urgent need for dialogue and reconciliation among communities in Manipur. Peace can only be achieved when justice is delivered, and the rights of all communities are respected.

Conclusion

The tragic kidnapping and killing of six family members in Jiribam have left an indelible scar on Manipur. While the survivors struggle to cope with their loss, the incident has brought the focus back to the ongoing ethnic violence in the state. The government must act decisively to ensure justice for the victims and work towards lasting peace in the region.