Manipur Chief Minister Delivers Ex Gratia and Condolences to Grieving Family
In a solemn gesture, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Saturday personally handed over an ex gratia amount of Rs 10 lakh to the family members of a deceased internally displaced minor girl. The tragic incident involved a seven-year-old girl who went missing on April 5 and was found allegedly raped and murdered the following day. Singh visited the Akampat relief camp in Imphal East, where he expressed his heartfelt condolences and shared in the profound grief and pain of the aggrieved family.
Assurances of Justice and Support for Displaced Persons
The Chief Minister assured the family of all possible assistance and promised a speedy delivery of justice in this harrowing case. The girl's last rites were performed on Friday, bringing a measure of closure to the family. In a related development, the judge of the special Pocso court at Imphal East remanded the accused to judicial custody for 15 days to ensure a smooth and thorough investigation.
During his visit to the relief camp, Singh engaged with the inmates, many of whom are from Moreh. They urged him to accelerate the resettlement process for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and requested the establishment of an IRB battalion at Moreh to enhance security for the local population. This highlights ongoing concerns about safety and stability in the region.
Historical Tributes and Commemorative Events
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Khemchand paid tribute to Maharaj Narasingh on his 176th death anniversary at Kangla in Imphal. The observance included Khemchand offering tarpan at Nungjeng Pukhri, Kangla, and paying obeisance to the Shree Shree Govindajee Jalakeli Pala led by Maharajkumari Hemamanjuri. Addressing the gathering, Khemchand recalled Maharaj Narasingh's diplomatic efforts during the 'Seven Years Devastation,' noting his visit to Cachar and how he united Manipuri people across the region.
He emphasized that with British assistance, the Manipur Levy was formed, which later played a crucial role in driving away Burmese forces and regaining freedom to re-establish an independent Manipur. The event was marked by a guard of honour, a gun salute, and the sounding of the last post by a contingent of the 1st Manipur Rifles, adding a ceremonial dignity to the remembrance.
Honoring a Modern Martyr
Later in the afternoon, Chief Minister Khemchand paid tributes to BSF constable Mithun Mandal, who was martyred during a firing between armed groups in Ukhrul district on Friday. A wreath-laying ceremony was held at the Imphal airport, attended by top officials including the DGP of Manipur and the security advisor. This act underscored the ongoing sacrifices made by security personnel in conflict-affected areas of the state.
The series of events on Saturday showcased Chief Minister Singh's engagement with both immediate humanitarian crises and broader historical commemorations, reflecting a multifaceted approach to governance in Manipur amidst challenges of displacement, security, and justice.
