Editor
Manipur in Turmoil as Missing Students' Photos Send Shockwaves Through Society
IMPHAL, Sep 25, 2023: In a heart-wrenching turn of events, photographs depicting two missing students in captivity, just moments before their tragic demise, have surfaced on social media. This revelation has sent shockwaves throughout the community, leaving everyone in a state of disbelief and sorrow.
As concerns grew, the Manipur state government took swift action on Monday, seeking to address the volatile situation by confirming that the case of the two missing students, Phijam Hemjit, aged 20, and Hijam Linthoingambi, aged 17, who mysteriously disappeared in July 2023, has been transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in response to the wishes of the state's residents.
A release issued by the Chief Minister's Secretariat conveyed the government's response to the emerging crisis. It stated, "The State Government has become aware of the circulation of photographs of the two missing students on social media."
The statement reassured the public that the State police, in collaboration with central security agencies, is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the students' disappearance and working to identify those responsible for their tragic end. A search operation has also been initiated to locate the perpetrators of this heinous crime.
The government appealed to the public for restraint, emphasizing the importance of letting the authorities handle the investigation.
Recalling the timeline of events, the two students were last seen on July 6, and after their families reported them missing, the investigation led to the discovery of Phijam Hemjit's last mobile location in Lamdan, Churachandpur district, an area dominated by the Kuki community. Despite efforts, no substantial leads have emerged, although CCTV footage showed them heading towards Nambol in Bishnupur district on the morning of July 6.
In light of the disturbing situation, the government has vowed to take swift and decisive action against anyone involved in the kidnapping and murder of Phijam Hemjit and Hijam Linthoingambi.
Sources indicate that the CBI began its involvement in the case on August 28, 2023, to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation.
The parents of the missing children had previously made appeals to the Kuki community through media outlets, appealing for the safe return of their beloved children, considering their young age.
Meanwhile, the public, along with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), has been fervently urging the authorities to locate the missing students and bring the culprits to justice.
The circulation of the photos depicting the students just moments before their tragic demise has intensified the sense of urgency, sparking widespread demands for swift and resolute action to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable for this heartbreaking tragedy.