Lagatar24 Desk
Imphal: The chilling brutality faced by a 31-year-old tribal woman in Manipur’s Jiribam district on November 7 has come to light through an autopsy revealing “third-degree” torture with nails and burns inflicted before she was set on fire. The mother of three was allegedly raped and subsequently burned to death by armed intruders in her village home, sparking outrage and further violence in the region.
Autopsy Unveils Grisly Details
The autopsy conducted at Silchar Medical College in Assam uncovered extensive torture, with a metallic nail embedded in the woman’s thigh and wounds across her body. Tragically, the charred condition of her body prevented forensic experts from determining if she had been sexually assaulted. The report describes 99% burns, with even bone fragments scorched, and portions of her limbs and facial structure missing.
Statement from Husband and Community Outrage
According to the FIR filed in Jiribam, the woman’s husband alleges that she was raped before being “brutally killed” at their residence. He claims members of a valley-based militant group ransacked and set 17 homes ablaze, including theirs. This incident has fueled tensions, with Kuki-Zo organizations condemning the attack and demanding justice.
Calls for Protection and Action
Community groups such as the Indigenous Tribes Advocacy Committee of Pherzawl and Jiribam have appealed for central government intervention to ensure the safety of the Kuki-Zomi-Hmar people. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum from Churachandpur warned of potential unrest if the attackers are not apprehended swiftly.
Backdrop of Ethnic Conflict in Manipur
The horrific attack adds to the ongoing ethnic turmoil in Manipur, where violence has targeted both sides of the hill-valley divide since last year. Displaced families from tribal communities remain in relief shelters, with incidents of women being subjected to heinous assaults amid the persistent conflict.
