In a significant development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken decisive action by filing charge sheets against five individuals connected to the abduction and murder of two Meitei students in Manipur. The lifeless bodies of the students were discovered in a forested area, sparking widespread outrage and social media attention.
CBI Intervention
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh revealed during the state assembly session on Tuesday (March 05) that the CBI has taken charge of the case involving the disappearance and tragic demise of the two Meitei students. The chief minister confirmed that charge sheets have been filed against the five suspects linked to the crime.
When pressed for additional details, Chief Minister N Biren Singh stated that the matter is now under the purview of an independent investigative team. The limited information provided suggests that the investigation is ongoing, and specific details have not been disclosed publicly at this stage.
The backdrop of the case involves ethnic violence in Manipur that erupted on May 3 last year. The disappearance of Phijam Hemjit (20) and Hijam Linthoingambi (17) on July 6, 2023, led to widespread protests in the valley areas of Manipur. The case gained attention after disturbing photographs of the missing students circulated on social media.
Originally handled by Manipur police, the case was later transferred to the CBI for a more comprehensive and impartial investigation. CCTV footage recovered by the Manipur police depicted the students riding a KTM bike towards Khoupum via Lamdan in Churachandpur district. However, due to the prevailing communal strife between the Kuki and Meitei communities and the crisis in Manipur, authorities faced challenges in locating the students.
Hijam Kullajit, the father of Hijam Linthoingambi, expressed dissatisfaction with the failure to locate the bodies of the two students. He emphasized the urgency of a thorough investigation and swift justice. The grieving father appealed to the government to address the matter promptly in the Manipur assembly, underscoring the need for closure and justice for the victims.