Supreme Court Committee Accuses Manipur NGOs Of Fueling Ethnic Tensions, Hindering Peace Efforts

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In a significant development concerning the ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur, a Supreme Court–appointed committee, led by former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Justice Gita Mittal, has accused state non-government organizations (NGOs) of exacerbating the situation. The committee’s report, based on its first field visit, highlights a disturbing scenario where these NGOs are allegedly hindering the cremation of 88 identified bodies preserved in Imphal mortuaries, obstructing the acceptance of ex gratia by the kin of the deceased, and contributing to the ongoing ethnic discord.

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The committee’s findings reveal that while the relatives of the deceased are willing to perform the last rites, certain civil society organizations (CSOs) are exerting significant pressure to prevent this, driven by vested interests and an aim to leverage the situation to compel authorities to meet unwarranted demands. This obstruction is seen as a tactic to maintain tension between communities and impede the restoration of peace and harmony in the state. The report explicitly states,

“Apprehension was also expressed that there are elements interested in maintaining tension between communities and preventing restoration of peace and harmony in the state. For this reason, true and correct facts of the matter are also not being placed before the Supreme Court (by some of the petitioner NGOs).”

The state government had identified nine locations for burial and cremation, allowing kin to choose any of these sites. However, the CSOs are reportedly insisting on mass burials at unsuitable spots, a move that the committee believes will serve as a source for constant mounting of tension between communities in Manipur and prevent the restoration of normalcy.

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In a distressing display of protest, about 50 coffins have been placed opposite the entrance of the office of the deputy commissioner, Churachandpur. This act, according to the committee, not only causes deep pain and agony for those who have lost their loved ones but is also demoralizing for state government officials working tirelessly for the displaced populations. The committee emphasized that this display of coffins is a continuous instigation of angst and tension among the inhabitants of the district.

The committee has requested the Supreme Court to direct CSOs not to interfere in the acceptance of ex gratia and bodies by relatives for the performance of last rites. Additionally, it suggested that if the bodies are not accepted by relatives within a specified time, the authorities should be directed to carry out the last rites free of charge as per the Manipur Municipalities Act, 1994.

This report sheds light on the complex dynamics of the ethnic conflicts in Manipur and the role of NGOs and CSOs in these tensions. It underscores the need for a balanced approach to address the grievances of all parties involved while ensuring that the actions of certain organizations do not exacerbate the already delicate situation in the state.