The recent incident in Manipur, where two women were paraded naked, has sent shockwaves throughout the nation. The state is currently witnessing widespread protests and escalating tensions as various political parties are raising their voice to seek justice for the victims. In the wake of this appalling event, a heart-wrenching incident from the past has also resurfaced, further highlighting the urgent need to address and confront such issues.
Back in July 2004, the Thangjam Manorama case sent tremors through Manipur and the entire country. The incident involved the alleged rape and killing of a 32-year-old woman by security forces in the state. In response to this heinous act, demonstrations erupted across Manipur. In a unique and powerful form of protest, 12 women decided to march naked against security personnel. This striking demonstration not only garnered international attention but also served as a stark reminder of the suffering women endure during times of conflict.
Fast forward 19 years, and Manipur finds itself once again grappling with violence. A viral video showing the naked rape of two Kuki women horrified the nation. The women who had protested in 2004 expressed their shock at the brutality of this recent incident. Gyaneswari, who was 54 during the earlier protest and is now in her 70s, described the current situation in Manipur as a war. She was deeply saddened by the video and called for severe punishment for the perpetrators, as reported by News18.
Ramani, now 95 years old, had led the movement seeking justice for Manorama back in the day. She acknowledged that women on both sides of the conflict continue to be targeted. The women from the past protest urged the government to address all complaints related to women’s safety and rights.
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While their age prevents them from taking to the streets again, the women vehemently condemned the recent video and the attacks on women. Nangbi, aged 72, asserted that strict punishment would serve as a lesson to those committing such atrocities. They remain united in their cause, regardless of the ethnicity of the affected women, and called on the government to intervene and protect women from such violence.
For these 12 women, all belonging to the Meitei community, gender remains the strongest bond that unites them. They continue to advocate for an end to the targeting of women and aspire to keep the fight alive for the welfare of their sisters. Despite the passing years, their commitment to women’s rights remains resolute.
