Kuki Women's Organisation for Human Rights Condemns Brutal Terrorist Attack in Zairawn, Demands Justice

The Kuki Women’s Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) has issued a strong condemnation of a brutal terrorist attack on the Kuki-Zo village of Zairawn in Jiribam District, which took place on the night of November 7, 2024. The attack, allegedly carried out by armed Meitei militants, resulted in the destruction of several homes and the horrific death of Mrs. Zosangkim, a Kuki-Zo woman and mother of three children.

The KWOHR described the attack as an “act of unimaginable cruelty,” highlighting the extreme violence suffered by Mrs. Zosangkim, who was reportedly burned alive during the assault. The organization denounced the attack as a violation of basic human rights and a flagrant assault on the dignity and sanctity of life.

“This heinous crime is not just an attack on one village,” the KWOHR stated in its official statement. “It is a grave violation of human rights, an assault on humanity itself, and an existential threat to the Kuki-Zo community as a whole.” The organization stressed that the continued targeting of Kuki-Zo villages by Meitei militants has exacerbated the already tense and volatile situation in the region.

The KWOHR called for a “swift, transparent, and thorough” response from central government authorities and security forces to ensure that those responsible for this barbaric attack are swiftly brought to justice. “The people of Zairawn, and the family of Mrs. Zosangkim in particular, have suffered immeasurably,” the statement continued. “It is crucial that these senseless acts of violence are addressed with the seriousness they deserve.”

As a result of the attack, which also involved the burning of homes in the village, the KWOHR is rallying the community to unite in the pursuit of justice. “We stand in full solidarity with the victims and their families, offering our deepest condolences and unwavering support,” said the organization. “Together, we will not rest until justice is served.”

The KWOHR has further urged both local and national authorities to take immediate action to prevent further violence and to protect the Kuki-Zo community from continued attacks. The group stressed that these repeated instances of violence cannot be ignored and must be met with appropriate legal and security measures to hold the perpetrators accountable.

As the investigation into the attack unfolds, the Kuki Women’s Organisation for Human Rights continues to demand justice for Mrs. Zosangkim and all the victims of violence in the region. The tragic events in Zairawn serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing human rights challenges facing the Kuki-Zo people in the region.

The KWOHR has vowed to keep pressing for justice and accountability, ensuring that those responsible for this devastating crime are held to account.