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From Kamal Haasan to Priyanka Chopra: celebs speak out against Manipur violence and sexual assault

By TNSCorrespondent, 21 July, 2023
Manipur, Violence against Women, Celebrities

(This article is authored by Alar)

The recent video of two women being brutally assaulted and paraded naked by a mob of men in Manipur has shaken the nation and sparked outrage among people from all walks of life. The horrific incident, which took place on May 4 in Thoubal district, is a result of the ongoing violence and riots in the state over the demand for tribal status by the Maithei community.

The two women, who belong to the Kuki-Zomi community, were dragged out of their house, which was set on fire, and subjected to sexual violence on the road. Their brother, who tried to intervene, was stabbed and killed by the assailants.

The video, which surfaced on Twitter on Wednesday, has drawn condemnation from celebrities, politicians, activists and common citizens, who have demanded justice for the victims and strict action against the perpetrators. Bollywood stars such as Akshay Kumar, Kiara Advani, Sonu Sood, Sanjay Dutt, and Priyanka Chopra have expressed their shock and disgust over the incident and called for severe punishment for the culprits.

Akshay Kumar tweeted, “Shaken, disgusted to see the video of violence against women in Manipur. I hope the culprits get such a harsh punishment that no one ever thinks of doing a horrifying thing like this again.”

Kiara Advani wrote, “The video of violence against women in Manipur is horrifying and has shaken me to the core. I pray the women get justice at the earliest. Those responsible must face the most SEVERE punishment they deserve.”

Actor and politician Kamal Haasan said that the breakdown of constitutional machinery in Manipur has caused concern and that President’s rule may be necessary. Kamal Haasan said, "Breakdown of Constitutional machinery in Manipur. A clear case for the president’s rule.", 

Director Pa Ranjith's tweet read, "Following the order to include the socially, economically, and politically dominant Meitei Hindu tribe into the Schedule Tribe List, riots broke out between Meitis and Kuki-Zo Christian Tribes. The riots have continued for two months, leading to massive displacement, the killing of civilians, and sexual violence, while the internet has been shut down across the state."

Bollywood actor Sonu Sood said, “It’s not about religion or caste or state. It’s about humanity. We are one and we need to stand together as one. This is unacceptable and unforgivable. Justice must be served.”

Sanjay Dutt tweeted, “The video portraying violence against women in Manipur was shocking and sickening. My utmost hope is for the culprits to be punished with the utmost severity, sending a clear message that such despicable actions will not be tolerated in any circumstance.”

Apart from Bollywood celebrities, other prominent personalities have also spoken out against the Manipur violence.  Union Minister Smriti Irani said that investigation is currently underway and assured that no effort will be spared to bring perpetrators to justice.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas wrote on Instagram, "It took a video going viral… 77 days after the heinous crimes were committed… Before actions were taken. Rationale? Reasons? None matter--irrespective of what and why, situational or circumstantial, we cannot allow women to be pawns in any games,”. 

The nation has been chilled by disturbing photos and videos from riot events, and a recent video in particular captured the harrowing sight of young women dragged naked on the road, further sparking public anger. The video has exposed the gravity of the situation in Manipur and highlighted the need for urgent action to restore peace and justice in the state.

 

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