GUWAHATI: A disturbing seven-second video depicting a man, labelled “Kuki”, seemingly being burned alive has sent shockwaves throughout Manipur.
The video, which has been shared across several groups in instant messaging apps, features a man dressed in black T-shirt and camouflage trousers lying in a trench.
The man’s face appears to be severely injured as the flames consume him. It remains uncertain whether the man was indeed subjected to being burned alive.
While the authenticity of the video is yet to be verified by the police, political repercussions are being felt across the state and nationally.
Manipur’s Chief Minister N Biren Singh has refuted claims made by tribal organisations regarding the incident while the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) commented on the situation, labelling it as “extremely sad and shameful.”
The release of the video has sparked a heated exchange between the Opposition and the Centre. Sharing the blurred video with a caption in a popular micro-blogging website, INDIA wrote, “This is from Manipur!! Kuki tribal youth burnt alive in Manipur. The incident of passing away is extremely sad and shameful. Modi ji is expressing sorrow about the neighbouring country but failed to Save Manipur…”
Adding to the criticism, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi expressed her dismay on the platform, stating, “In yet another horrific video emerging from Manipur, the body of a tribal man is seen being set on fire in a trench. A police official said the video appeared to be from early May. The tragedy of Manipur is still not discussed & addressed. Priorities.”
As the video continues to circulate, the state awaits a comprehensive investigation to bring clarity to this tragic situation.
