CBI Team Probes Kidnapping and Killing of Missing Students in Manipur
A CBI team, led by Special Director Ajay Bhatnagar, has commenced an investigation into the kidnapping and killing of two missing students in Manipur. The team, consisting of experts in special crime, crime scene recreation, interrogation, and technical surveillance, will be supported by elite forensic scientists from the CBI’s Central Forensic Science Laboratory. The case was handed over to the CBI by the Manipur government, prompting swift action from the agency.
The two students, Phijam Hemjit (20) and Hijam Linthoingambi (17), went missing on July 6. Recently, photos of their bodies circulated on social media, increasing public distress. The location of their mobile phones was last traced to Lamdan, near the winter flower tourist spot in Churachandpur district. The Manipur Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, expressed his commitment to apprehending the culprits and bringing them to justice, assuring the people of the state that both the state and central government are working closely on the matter.
To prevent any untoward incidents, the authorities have put security personnel on alert and imposed a ban on internet services for the next five days. This decision was made due to the spread of disinformation, false rumors, and other types of violent activities through various social media platforms. The Manipur government takes these threats seriously and aims to ensure public safety, the protection of property, and the maintenance of law and order.
The investigation into the kidnapping and killing of Phijam Hemjit and Hijam Linthoingambi is of utmost importance. The CBI’s involvement, along with the collaboration between the state and central government, signifies a commitment to resolving this matter swiftly. The authorities are determined to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore peace and security in Manipur.
The state’s recent tensions are not isolated to this case alone. Since May 3, there have been protests by the Kuki and Meitei communities in response to a High Court order. The order requested the state government to consider including the Meitei community in the category of Scheduled Tribes, allowing them to purchase land in hilly areas. The Meitei community seeks this status due to their increasing population and the need for land. These ongoing tensions add further complexity to the current situation in Manipur.
The CBI team’s arrival in Imphal marks a crucial step towards resolving the case of the missing students. With their expertise and the support of forensic scientists, it is hoped that the team will uncover the truth behind this tragic incident and ensure justice for Phijam Hemjit and Hijam Linthoingambi. The people of Manipur and the nation at large are looking to the investigative agencies to shed light on this dark event and bring closure to the grieving families.
