Responding to the Manipur MP (LS) Dr. Akoijam Bimol, who also raised concern about the ITP Report, the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) has said that the report aims for reconciliation, not division.
The Manipur MP said that rather than helping heal the wounds of a state ravaged by two years of bloodshed, the PUCL had added fuel to the fire and committed what he called “an irresponsible and dangerous blunder.”
In an overtly long open letter, sent to the MP through email on 28th August, the PUCL said it welcomes the suggestion of a public deliberation of the report, and that the aim of the ITP is not to widen divisions but to create a context for peace and reconciliation in Manipur. The letter said the report is based on depositions that came before the Tribunal.
“The report nowhere states that either community colluded with the government and clearly reveals that victims and survivors of both communities faced brutal violence; it, however, talks of the state complicity in the violence by giving a free hand to violent groups and an active failure to ensure safety and security of the people and peace in Manipur,” the letter mentioned.
It also said what became clear is that the bursting of conflict in Churachandpur on 3rd May 2023 was preceded by a series of events which clearly show that the 3rd May incident was not a spontaneous event.
The PUCL said they are open to criticism and dialogue and ready for consideration of comments or feedback made about any section of the report but requested that specific portions be highlighted with supporting material to show why a review is required.
It also said the report’s commitment is for the truth to be uncovered and prevail, however difficult it is, as only through truthful recounting of facts and events can justice and peace prevail and the process of reconciliation begin.
