The grieving family of M Rishikanta, a Meitei man who was tragically kidnapped and shot dead by suspected miscreants in Manipur's Churachandpur district on January 21, has finally claimed his body for the last rites on Sunday. This development comes after weeks of anguish and protests, marking a somber step toward closure in a case that has shocked the region.
Emotional Gathering at Hospital Mortuary
Family members, along with representatives from the joint action committee (JAC) and residents of Rishikanta's locality, gathered at the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) mortuary to receive the body. The atmosphere was heavy with sorrow as they prepared to bid farewell to their loved one, whose life was cut short in a brutal manner.
The body had been kept at JNIMS since the night of January 22, following a formal handover from Churachandpur police to Kakching police after the completion of the autopsy. This procedural delay had added to the family's distress, prolonging their wait for justice and proper rites.
Details of the Kidnapping and Murder
Rishikanta was kidnapped by armed miscreants from his fiancee's house, a shocking incident that highlights the ongoing tensions in Manipur. He was later found dead in the hills of Natjang under the jurisdiction of the Henglep police station, a remote area that has seen similar violence in the past.
Adding to the horror, a disturbing video showing Rishikanta's final moments—where he was shot twice—was released by the perpetrators and went viral on social media platforms. This graphic footage sparked widespread outrage and calls for action, leading the Manipur high court to intervene.
Court Intervention on Viral Video
On Friday, the Manipur high court directed authorities to remove the video from circulation, warning that its continued presence could disturb public order and incite further violence. This judicial step underscores the sensitivity of the case and the need to prevent the escalation of communal tensions in the already volatile state.
Partial Fulfillment of Demands Leads to Body Claim
JAC co-convenor Sarangthem Sushil stated that authorities had met nearly 70-80% of the demands raised by the JAC and family members, which prompted the decision to claim the body for the last rites. These demands likely included assurances of a thorough investigation, financial compensation, and measures to ensure such incidents do not recur.
However, Sushil emphasized that democratic protests would continue unabated until the culprits are arrested and brought to justice. He also made a specific demand for the arrest of Rishikanta's fiancee, Chingnu Haokip, in connection with the crime, suggesting possible complicity or knowledge that requires further investigation.
Government Announces Ex-Gratia Payment
In a move to provide some relief, the Manipur government announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh for the next of kin of the deceased. While this financial support is a gesture of sympathy, it does little to address the underlying issues of security and justice that the family and community are demanding.
The case of M Rishikanta remains a poignant reminder of the fragile peace in Manipur, where ethnic and communal conflicts continue to claim lives. As the family proceeds with the last rites, the call for accountability and peace echoes louder than ever.
