The Manipur Government led by CM N Biren Singh disclosed to the Supreme
Court that it has deposited Rs 5 crore into a dedicated bank account for
compensating women, who are survivors of sexual assault and other crimes.
These crimes have been happening since May 3, coinciding with the
outbreak of ethnic violence in the State.
The Manipur Government’s affidavit, however, has not mention the number
of women who have received compensation to date.
In September, the top court directed the State Government to identify all
religious structures in the State. The ethnic clash between the tribal Kuki-Zo
and the Meitei people has resulted in at least 180 fatalities since May 3.
Manipur reported to the apex court in August that the Central Bureau of
Investigation was investigating 20 cases related to molestation, rape, and
murder of women.
After the Supreme Court’s directions, the Manipur Government declared an
enhanced compensation scheme for women victims and survivors of sexual assault
and other crimes in September.
The compensation for victims who were either killed or gang-raped ranges
from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh. For other crimes, such as rape, sexual assault,
and injuries like loss of limbs or body parts, the compensation varies from Rs
1 lakh to Rs 9 lakh.
The Manipur Government has submitted a ‘short affidavit’ to the top court,
indicating the steps taken for the identification of religious buildings across
all 16 districts.
The move comes following the violence that began on May 3, affecting Hindu
temples, Sanamahi temples, and other religious structures.
Previously, the court had called for the protection of these places from
encroachment and destruction. The affidavit, dated October 16, reveals that
inspections could not be carried out in Noney and Senapati districts due to the
ongoing circumstances.
It only confirms that directives for identifying all religious buildings
in the State, whether intact or vandalised, have been dispatched.
In August, the State had reported to the Supreme Court that around 386
religious institutions from both communities had suffered damage, with further
assessment underway.
NE Watch Desk
