The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched an investigation into the ethnic clashes in Manipur, registering a total of 27 cases. The clashes, which have resulted in the loss of over 160 lives in a span of four months, prompted the CBI to take over the investigation from the state police.
According to sources, the CBI has re-registered the cases handed over to them, but has decided to keep the details confidential due to the sensitive nature of the situation in the northeastern state. The agency has already started questioning suspects and victims after visiting the crime sites.
To expedite the investigation, the CBI has formed a team of 53 officers, including 29 women, from various units across the country. This includes three Deputy Inspector Generals (DIGs) and Superintendent of Police (SP) Rajveer, who will report to a joint director overseeing the probe.
The investigation poses a challenge for the CBI, as the society in Manipur is divided along ethnic lines. The agency is taking precautions to avoid allegations of bias, as any involvement of individuals from one community could result in accusations from the other side. Moreover, some of the cases being investigated may fall under the provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
To ensure proper supervision, the CBI has appointed an SP-ranked officer to oversee the investigation, since Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) cannot hold supervisory roles in cases falling under the Act. This mobilization of a large number of women officers for this investigation is unprecedented.
The ethnic clashes began on May 3 when a Tribal Solidarity March was organized in the hill districts of Manipur to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status. The Meiteis constitute the majority in Manipur’s population, while the tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, make up 40% and reside primarily in the hill districts.
The CBI’s intervention is crucial to bring justice to the victims of the clashes and ensure a fair investigation that is free from bias. As the investigation progresses, the agency will need to navigate the complex ethnic dynamics at play while maintaining the integrity of the process.
