Imphal: The Kuki Lawyers’ Association (KLA) on Monday demanded the immediate identification, arrest and prosecution of those allegedly involved in the abduction and unlawful detention of Advocate Kaiminlen Haokip, a member of the Bar Council of Manipur and the Association.
In a statement, the KLA said Haokip was among tribal villagers who were reportedly tied, blindfolded and held under armed threat, acts it described as serious criminal offences and a direct attack on the safety of civilians and the independence of the legal profession.
The Association issued a strong condemnation of the alleged arson, abduction and grave human rights violations reported on January 26 at K. Songlung village in Kangpokpi district. The incidents have been attributed to armed cadres of the Zeliangrong United Front–Kamson faction (ZUF-K).
The KLA stated that the alleged acts violated fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution, and also breached international human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Calling for urgent action, the Association demanded a time-bound and independent investigation into the incidents, adequate security for affected villagers and witnesses, fixation of responsibility at all levels, and compensation and rehabilitation for the victims.
Warning against inaction, the KLA said any failure to act decisively would amount to a serious abdication of the state’s constitutional and international obligations, and could embolden further lawlessness and violence.
According to the Association, the violence resulted in the destruction of homes, plantations, farm infrastructure and a government-assisted integrated farming project in the small hamlet, which was reportedly home to about 32 residents from seven households. The KLA described the destruction as a form of collective punishment, impermissible under domestic law, the Constitution of India and international human rights standards.