SILCHAR, Nov 15: The ongoing delay in releasing the bodies of 10 deceased individuals, allegedly militants, killed by security forces in Jiribam, has sparked a wave of protests led by members of the Hmar community. The issue, now centered at Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH), has raised questions of procedural delays, dignity in death, and community justice, putting national focus on the unfolding situation.
Protesters gathered outside the SMCH mortuary on Thursday evening, calling for the bodies’ immediate return, chanting, “Give us our martyrs back.” Community members are demanding accountability and justice, with local authorities deploying additional police personnel to ensure the demonstration remains peaceful.
Initially concerned with delayed postmortems and the handover process, community members from Hmar associations across Assam are now expressing frustration over recent developments requiring DNA testing before releasing the bodies. A representative from a Hmar association in Hmarkhawlien, Cachar, voiced concerns, stating that while postmortems on ten of the deceased had concluded, authorities had introduced new requirements, demanding DNA testing to match claimants with the deceased before releasing the bodies. He accused Manipur Police of using DNA testing as a tactic to delay the handover further, stating, “This DNA test is nothing but a ploy to prolong the process and violates the dignity of the deceased.”
The Hmar Association member emphasized that the community’s patience was wearing thin, with fears that continued delays might escalate tensions in Assam’s Cachar district, where the community resides. “This ploy by the Manipur Police and government is an insult to our community. We ask that they respect the deceased and cooperate with families seeking closure,” he added.
Responding to these concerns, Cachar Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta stated that the situation remains under control and that Cachar Police is committed to maintaining peace in the area. “The case and procedures are being managed by the Manipur Police in coordination with SMCH. Our primary concern is maintaining law and order within Cachar,” he said.
SMCH sources confirmed that DNA samples have been sent for testing and that the bodies will only be released once these are verified.
