In a detailed statement, the Kuki-Zo Women Forum cited numerous cases of alleged killings, sexual violence, torture, and other atrocities committed against Kuki-Zo women during the conflict that erupted in May 2023.
BY PC Bureau
New Delhi, June 24: The Kuki-Zo Women’s Forum (Delhi & NCR) has strongly condemned a reported proposal by Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam to pardon members of Arambai Tenggol, alleging that such a move would undermine justice for victims of violence during the ongoing ethnic conflict in the state.
In a statement issued on June 24 , the organisation described the proposal as “an outrageous insult to justice” and a “blatant attempt to grant impunity” to those allegedly responsible for serious crimes committed against Kuki-Zo women and girls since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023.
Operating under the motto “Voice for the Voiceless,” the Forum accused Arambai Tenggol and associated armed groups of carrying out a systematic campaign of violence, including killings, sexual assaults, torture, arson, and public humiliation of Kuki-Zo civilians.
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The Kuki-Zo Women’s Forum, Delhi & NCR, strongly condemns the proposal by Manipur’s HM to pardon Arambai Tenggol for their crimes. This proposal is a blatant attempt to grant impunity to the perpetrators of horrific crimes against Kuki-Zo young girls & women @UN_Women pic.twitter.com/5PBQvCURCz
— KukiZoWF (@KukiZoWF) June 24, 2026
Alleged Cases Highlighted
The statement listed several women whom the Forum alleged were victims of violence linked to Arambai Tenggol members and associated mobs.
Among those named were Gouzavung, 57, of Lamphel in Imphal, who was allegedly dragged from a vehicle and killed by a mob; Veinem Chongloi, an elderly blind and bedridden woman from Uripok, who was allegedly strangled to death; and Helam and Hekim, who were reportedly shot dead in the same locality.
The Forum also highlighted the cases of Florence and Olivia from Khopibung village in Kangpokpi district, alleging that they were abducted, sexually assaulted, tortured, and murdered. Another victim cited was Hathem Kipgen of Langjing, who was allegedly raped and killed.
Other women named in the statement included Thiandam Vaiphei, Meena Hangsing, and Lydia Lourembam, whose deaths the organisation attributed to violence during the conflict.
The Forum further documented allegations of sexual violence against survivors, including Tin Vaiphei, Hoi Vaiphei, Thangi Hmar, Lhing Kipgen, and an 18-year-old nursing student whose identity was withheld. The statement alleged that many victims were subjected to gang rape, physical assault, and public humiliation.
Reaction to Pardon Proposal
The statement was issued in response to recent remarks by the Manipur Home Minister suggesting that leniency or pardon could be considered for members of Arambai Tenggol.
According to the Forum, extending clemency to individuals accused of involvement in atrocities would send a dangerous message that crimes committed during the conflict can go unpunished.
“The proposal amounts to rewarding perpetrators while denying justice to victims and survivors,” the statement said.
Demands Raised
The Kuki-Zo Women’s Forum called for:
- Immediate withdrawal of the proposed pardon for Arambai Tenggol members;
- Arrest and prosecution of all individuals allegedly involved in crimes against Kuki-Zo women and civilians;
- Adequate compensation and rehabilitation for victims and their families; and
- Intervention by the Central Government to ensure accountability and prevent impunity.
The organisation warned that granting pardon to those accused of serious crimes would not contribute to peace or reconciliation in Manipur and could further erode confidence in the justice system.
Continuing Conflict
The statement comes amid continuing tensions in Manipur, where ethnic violence between the predominantly Meitei community in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribes in the hill districts has persisted since May 2023.
The conflict has resulted in hundreds of deaths, the displacement of thousands of people, and widespread destruction of homes, places of worship, and public infrastructure. Both communities have accused each other of carrying out attacks and human rights abuses.
Concluding its statement, the Kuki-Zo Women’s Forum urged authorities to prioritise justice, accountability, and the protection of vulnerable communities, arguing that lasting peace can only be achieved through the rule of law and equal treatment for all victims.
