IMPHAL: In a powerful display of collective anger, the “Meira Paibis,” a group of influential Meitei women from India’s Manipur state, took matters into their own hands and sought reprisals against accused individuals involved in a shocking abuse video that surfaced recently. The video, which sparked nationwide outrage, depicted two Kuki women allegedly being humiliated and harassed by Meitei men in May amid ongoing ethnic conflict in the region.
Despite the prevailing ethnic tensions between the predominantly Hindu Meitei majority and the mainly Christian Kuki community, gender unity prevailed as the Meitei women decided to condemn the violence perpetrated against the Kuki women. The incident led to the torching of the homes of two accused men by the Meira Paibis, who demanded capital punishment for the perpetrators.
Traditionally conservative and patriarchal, the Meitei community stands apart with a history of women’s activism, granting women a more prominent role in their society. In response to the abuse video and the ensuing violence, tens of thousands of people have sought refuge in government-run camps, putting the spotlight on the ongoing conflict in Manipur.
Manipur Incident a Shame for Nation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the incident, expressing shame on behalf of the nation. The state government, led by Modi’s Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, is actively investigating the “heinous” act. While both communities involved in the conflict are united in condemning the abuse, clashes persist due to disagreements over public job quotas, college admissions, and land acquisition rights.
The Meira Paibis, acting as vigilantes for justice, have also shielded their own, as demonstrated when they thwarted armed police attempts to arrest another suspect linked to the video. In a three-hour standoff, Meira Paibis members bravely confronted the security forces, protecting the accused and denying the police access.
This group of determined women has been conducting dusk-till-dawn patrols since the onset of violence, signaling alerts with hammered electricity poles. They continue to defy authorities, demonstrating unwavering strength in their quest to protect their community.
As the situation unfolds, police have made six arrests related to the video and are conducting raids for other suspects. The Meira Paibis, however, remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, vowing to do whatever it takes to safeguard their people and denounce any form of abuse against women.
The Meitei Mothers of Manipur have emerged as a formidable force, demanding justice, and striving for gender equality amid deep-rooted ethnic tensions in the region. Their actions have sparked a nationwide conversation on the need for stronger protections for women and a united stand against abuse and violence.
