Jan. 29, 2025 : The Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights, Manipur Human Rights Commission, and Manipur State Commission for Women have issued a strong appeal for the safe release of children involved in armed groups.
This follows a recent consultation meeting held by the state commissions in Bishnupur District, where key concerns regarding internally displaced persons (IDPs) and child rights were discussed.
Highlighting the development, a press briefing was held at the office of the Manipur Human Rights Commission in Imphal today by representatives of the three commissions.
According to the commissions, the first-ever camp sitting and stakeholders’ consultation meeting, held in Bishnupur, brought together representatives from the commissions, local officials, and concerned organizations to address the issues faced by IDPs.
During the session, disturbing reports from social media regarding the use of children as ‘combatants’ by armed groups were highlighted. Additionally, it was noted that militants have been occupying school buildings and premises as camps, further compromising children’s safety and access to education.
In light of these issues, the commissions made an urgent appeal to all stakeholders, including non-state actors, to ensure the safe release of children engaged by armed groups. They called on families to reclaim their children from these groups and allow them to return home, where they can resume their education and continue their personal development.
The commissions also urged law enforcement agencies to treat these children as “children in need of care and protection” rather than “children in conflict with the law,” ensuring they receive the necessary support for rehabilitation.
The consultation meeting also raised concerns about the overall well-being of IDPs, particularly women and children, who are among the most vulnerable in the camps. The commissions called for immediate action to address their health, education, and safety needs, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts from all stakeholders to protect the rights of children caught in the ongoing conflict.
