The United States expressed deep concern over the recent incident of sexual assault captured on viral videos in India’s northeastern state of Manipur. The assault, which occurred two months ago, involved a mob allegedly raping and parading two women naked. The case has ignited outrage both within the country and globally after the videos went viral on social media.
The U.S. State Department spokesperson condemned the brutal and terrible incident, offering sympathies to the victims. The victims, aged 21 and 19, reported the assault in May during intense ethnic clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities. These clashes erupted due to potential changes in economic benefits provided to the Kuki people. To quell the violence, the Indian government dispatched thousands of paramilitary and army troops, but the situation remained tense, leading to sporadic violence and killings.
Since the eruption of violence in Manipur, at least 125 people have lost their lives and over 40,000 individuals have been displaced from their homes. The United States has encouraged authorities to respond to the humanitarian needs of all groups while ensuring the protection of their homes, places of worship, and well-being. The State Department spokesperson emphasized the importance of a peaceful and inclusive resolution to the ongoing violence.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condemnation of the assault, describing it as shameful and promising strong action to address the issue.
