In a disturbing incident along the Manipur-Myanmar border on December 4, 2023, 13 unarmed Meitei youths were brutally killed by a joint team of central security forces and Kuki tribal mercenaries. The outlawed People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the armed wing of the proscribed Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF), has vehemently condemned this act of violence and terrorism.
Expressing Deep Sorrow and Revolutionary Salutes
The RPF extended revolutionary salutes to the slain youths who, according to the statement, joined the outfit with an understanding of the enemies’ strategy to sow discord among different communities in Manipur. Condolence meets were organized across all units, departments, and stations of the RPF and PLA to pay respects to the departed individuals and share the grief of their families.
Allegations of Unjust Capture and Inhumane Executions
The statement alleges that the victims were captured, tortured, and subjected to inhumane executions despite being unarmed. The RPF strongly denounces these acts as extreme forms of terrorism and potential war crimes that could be tried by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The condemnation emphasizes upholding the Common Article 3 of the Geneva Convention 1949 and additional protocols in 1997. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for these killings. Major political parties, including the Congress, Janata Dal-United, CPI, Manipur, along with various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), have also expressed their condemnation for the heinous act.
Burial Amidst Outrage: Calls for Justice Intensify
The bodies of the deceased youths were laid to rest at Andro Torongthel in Imphal East district on December 6, 2023. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, raising concerns about the safety and security of communities in the region. The demand for a thorough investigation and justice for the victims is gaining momentum among various quarters.
