Manipur Sexual Assault Video: Union Minister Smriti Irani Expresses Outrage, Speaks To State CM Biren Singh

In the aftermath of a shocking and disgusting video depicting two Manipur tribal women being paraded naked causing widespread outrage on social media, Union Minister Smriti Irani, who is known for speaking up on women's issues, vociferously condemned the assault.

The sexual assault video involving two women from Manipur has been widely condemned as inhuman and barbaric.

Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smriti Irani reached out to Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who informed her about the ongoing investigation and assured her that no stone will be left unturned in ensuring justice for the victims.

Irani took to Twitter and said, "The horrific video of sexual assault of two women emanating from Manipur is condemnable and downright inhuman. Spoke to Chief Minister N Biren Singh ji, who has informed me that investigation is currently underway and assured that no effort will be spared to bring perpetrators to justice."

Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh confirmed that Irani has reached out to him and the chief secretary and assured her that swift action will be taken against the perpetrators of this crime.

According to the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF), the atrocity occurred on 4 May in Kangpokpi district, which is approximately 35 km away from the state capital Imphal.

In a statement, the organisation expressed its disgust at the incident.

The video shows men continuously molesting the helpless women who cry and plead with their captors.

The Manipur Police have initiated an investigation into the incident. A case involving abduction, gang-rape, and murder has been reported at Nongpok Sekmai police station in Thoubal district.

The Manipur Police have issued a statement, stating that they are actively working towards apprehending the culprits as soon as possible.

Criticism has also been directed towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his silence and the perceived lack of action from both the state and central governments.

Members of the Congress party, Jairam Ramesh, and the Trinamool Congress party, Derek O'Brien, have called for a statement from Prime Minister Modi to be made in parliament.

Rahul Gandhi of the Congress party expressed his concerns on Twitter, holding Prime Minister Modi responsible for the situation in Manipur.

"PM's silence and inaction has plunged Manipur into anarchy. INDIA will not remain silent as the very idea of India is under attack in Manipur. We stand in solidarity with the people of Manipur, advocating for peace as the only way forward," stated a tweet by Gandhi.

Manipur experienced ethnic violence beginning on 3 May, when the Kuki tribal community organised a solidarity march to protest against the Meitei community's demand for 'scheduled tribes' status. The violence has resulted in over 120 fatalities.