Manipur: Tribal Organizations End Shutdown in Churachandpur After Resolving Dispute Using Customary Practices
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Synopsis
On March 18, 2023, the Hmar Inpui and Zomi Council lifted the indefinite shutdown in Churachandpur, Manipur, after settling a dispute stemming from a severe attack on a tribal leader. The agreement was reached based on local customary laws, ensuring medical expenses and compensation were addressed.
Key Takeaways
- Hmar Inpui and Zomi Council resolved a dispute.
- Indefinite shutdown lifted in Churachandpur.
- Victim’s family received Rs 50,000 as compensation.
- Initial medical expenses covered by the assailants' family.
- Call for peace and dialogue among community leaders.
Imphal, March 18 (NationPress) Two tribal groups in Manipur — the Hmar Inpui and the Zomi Council — have decided to lift the indefinite shutdown in Churachandpur district on Tuesday after resolving the conflict that arose from the brutal attack on a senior Hmar tribal leader on March 16.
The leaders from Hmar Inpui and the Zomi Council convened a meeting with the families of both the victim and the assailants, reaching a resolution based on local customary law and practices.
The indefinite shutdown was initiated following an incident where Richard Laltanpuia Hmar, the General Secretary of Hmar Inpui, was attacked by local miscreants while he was returning home, resulting in severe injuries and excessive bleeding.
Currently, Laltanpuia Hmar is receiving medical care in a hospital due to the injuries sustained.
During the Tuesday meeting, it was agreed that the family of the assailant would pay Rs 50,000 to the victim's family as part of a traditional peace settlement.
Additionally, the assailant's family will cover the initial Rs 2 lakh for Laltanpuia Hmar's medical expenses, along with any further costs that may arise. Should the situation escalate due to the attack, both parties agreed to reconvene to address the matter. They mutually consented to prevent any future acts of violence.
Following the March 16 incident, the local administration imposed an indefinite curfew in Churachandpur due to the heightened tensions surrounding the assault on the Hmar leader.
Dharun Kumar S., the Deputy Commissioner of Churachandpur, called upon community leaders to unite for peaceful dialogue. He stated, 'Violence and unrest will not lead to a solution, and it is in all our best interests to find common ground through peaceful discussions.'
Various tribal organizations have condemned the 'cowardly attack' on Richard Hmar, who is affiliated with the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF).
