MCPCR seeks a time-bound probe into the reported killing of a 17-year-old Class XI student in Tamenglong and stronger security for children in vulnerable areas.
Imphal, Sept. 22: A 17-year-old Class XI student from Upper Takou Village in Tamei Sub-Division of Tamenglong district was reportedly killed in an attack on September 21, prompting the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) to call for an impartial and time-bound investigation.
According to the MCPCR, the minor was travelling towards Tamei when he was attacked. The Commission said the circumstances surrounding the incident and the responsibility for the attack must be established through a prompt investigation.
The Commission expressed concern over what it described as repeated attacks on minors and young students, saying such incidents threaten the safety and dignity of children.
The MCPCR referred to Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees the right to life, and provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child recognising children's right to life, survival and development. It also noted that children affected by conflict and civil unrest are entitled to special care and protection under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and other applicable laws.
The Commission urged the government and law-enforcement agencies to take immediate measures to protect minors and students in vulnerable and conflict-affected areas.
It called for adequate security along vulnerable routes used by students, around educational institutions and in villages and other locations where children may be at risk. It also stressed the need to ensure safe passage for students travelling to and from educational institutions and to review and strengthen preventive security arrangements.
The MCPCR further called for effective coordination among the district administration, police, educational institutions and local authorities to identify and respond quickly to threats affecting children.
“No child should be required to travel through an unsafe area without appropriate protection or security arrangements,” the Commission said.
The MCPCR called for the identification and apprehension of those responsible for the killing and their prosecution in accordance with law. It also urged the competent authority to provide adequate ex-gratia assistance and all admissible relief to the bereaved family under applicable government norms.
The concerned district administration and police authorities have been asked to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) to the Commission within 15 days.
According to the MCPCR, the report should cover the investigation and prosecution, ex-gratia and relief provided to the family, and concrete measures taken to strengthen the safety and protection of minors and students in vulnerable areas.
The Commission also appealed to armed groups and all parties involved in communal clashes, conflict or unrest to immediately cease acts of violence against minors, students and women.
It stressed that children must not be targeted or made victims of communal or armed conflict, regardless of their community, identity or location.
The MCPCR appealed to all concerned to exercise restraint and uphold every child's right to life, safety, education and development, stating that child protection must remain a non-negotiable obligation even during periods of conflict and unrest.
