Islamabad, Rising incidents of attacks on human rights activists by groups linked to Hindutva organizations across India have come to the forefront again, especially since Narendra Modi assumed office as Prime Minister in 2014. The recent vandalization of the residence of prominent rights advocate Babloo Loitongbam in Manipur’s capital, Imphal, by certain Meitei organizations has drawn sharp criticism from the international community.
According to a news release by Kashmir Media Service, earlier this month, Babloo Loitongbam’s house in the Kwakeithel area of Imphal West district was targeted by a mob believed to be from Meitei (Hindu) groups. The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) promptly responded, emphasizing its alarm over the threats towards Loitongbam from Meitei Leepun and Arambai Tenggol factions in Manipur, particularly in light of his comments on inter-communal violence since May. The UNHRC post further urged the authorities to ensure protection for Loitongbam, his kin, and his residence, while also holding the culprits responsible.
On October 5, when the incident occurred, Loitongbam was not in India. Authorities, referencing family statements, shared that a group of approximately 30 to 35 individuals approached Loitongbam’s house, seeking him. Their intention was to demand explanations and an apology concerning his recent comments to local press about the razing of churches and the involvement of specific groups in the ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur.
In a related event, certain individuals confronted the residence of ex-Additional Superintendent of Police Thounaojam Brinda, demanding clarity and regret over her remarks about particular organizations in Manipur. Following her service retirement, Brinda, recognized for her campaigns against drug-related issues and the oppression of women, had contended in the Manipur Assembly elections the previous year, representing the Janata Dal (United) for the Yaiskul district. Two Meitei associations, Meitei Leepun and Arambai Tenggol, have since called for public ostracization of both Brinda and Loitongbam.
It’s noteworthy that Babloo Loitongbam consistently speaks out against state measures that transgress the rights of the local non-Hindu communities in Manipur and other North Eastern Indian states. In the 53rd Session of the UNHRC this year, Loitongbam, during a seminar, emphasized the intensifying actions to suppress civil society entities and human rights defenders in India, which are negatively affecting their work. He also spotlighted the diminishing civic freedom in the country and the laws that curtail the liberties of speech, association, and assembly as causes for concern.