INVC NEWS
Washington : From Oakland City Hall to Iselin, New Jersey, and Boston, Massachusetts, Indian-Americans come together to protest the distressing events in Manipur. Explore the collective efforts for peace, empathy, and the protection of women and minorities. #JusticeForManipur”
Indian-Americans and their allies have taken to the streets in multiple US states, including California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts, to vehemently condemn the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur, a region in northeastern India. The conflict has tragically resulted in hundreds of deaths and the displacement of thousands. The catalyst for these protests was a disturbing video that emerged last week, showing two young tribal women being stripped naked by a group of men in Manipur.
Standing United at Oakland City Hall, California
In California, the Indian-American community and various supporting groups, such as the North American Manipur Tribal Association (NAMTA), the Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC), and the Ambedkar King Study Circle, organized a powerful protest at the steps of Oakland City Hall. This gathering sought to raise awareness about the harrowing atrocities committed in Manipur.
Niang Hangzhou, a founding member of NAMTA, passionately voiced the anguish of the affected community, stating, “They threw us out of our homes. They burnt our houses, our properties. They looted, killed, raped. They burnt us alive, cut off our heads. They broke us and reduced everything to ashes.” Hangzhou’s poignant words shed light on the genocide faced by the Kuki-Zomi community in Manipur. He urged the international community not to remain silent and called upon the House to discuss the issue, akin to the European Parliament’s action.
Uniting for Justice in Iselin, New Jersey
In Iselin, New Jersey, the Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) took the initiative to organize a protest and candlelight vigil. Attendees comprised people from diverse faiths and ethnic backgrounds, including members of local churches, NAMTA, and the National Association of Asian Indian Christians.
Pastor Prem Kankanla, representing the United Telugu Christ Church, stressed the gravity of the situation, remarking, “If those two women could be dragged and paraded, it could happen to any other woman, irrespective of religion.” He passionately called for unity to protect women and minorities from such heinous acts of violence.
Solidarity in Boston, Massachusetts
The Indian-American community in Boston, Massachusetts, united to show their support and solidarity with the victims of the Manipur violence. During the gathering, the attendees urged the administration of President Joe Biden to intervene in the situation, and they called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take immediate action to stop the escalating violence in the region.
The protests caught the attention of the Biden administration, prompting a senior official to express the nation’s shock and horror at the distressing video. The US extended its deepest sympathies to the survivors of this gender-based violence and voiced support for the Indian government’s efforts to seek justice for the victims.
Amplifying the Voices for Change
The demonstrations held across several US cities reflect the profound concern and empathy of Indian-Americans and their allies towards the victims of the Manipur violence. The power of these protests lies in the collective voice of a community that seeks to amplify its message and bring about tangible change.
By taking to the streets, the demonstrators have drawn attention to the deeply distressing reality faced by the people of Manipur. They are determined to compel both national and international authorities to acknowledge the atrocities and take decisive measures to address the crisis.
Shining Light on Manipur’s Tragedy
It is essential for the world to pay attention to the unfolding crisis in Manipur, a state that has experienced long-standing tensions and conflicts. The region’s diverse ethnic groups have faced historical grievances, and the recent violence has only exacerbated the situation.
The disturbing video that sparked the protests shed light on the appalling abuse and violence faced by women in conflict zones. Such heinous acts are a stark reminder of the urgent need to address gender-based violence and protect the rights of women in every corner of the world.
Calling for International Intervention
As the protests gain momentum, Indian-Americans and their allies are calling upon the international community to take action. They seek meaningful intervention to halt the bloodshed in Manipur and protect the lives and dignity of innocent civilians.
The Biden administration’s acknowledgement of the situation is a crucial step, and it is incumbent upon world leaders to use their influence and diplomatic channels to address the crisis promptly. The international community must collectively condemn violence and work towards establishing lasting peace in Manipur.
Empathy and Support Across Borders
The demonstrations in the US reflect the deep-rooted empathy and support that exists within the Indian-American community. They stand in solidarity with their fellow countrymen and women in Manipur, despite the geographical distance that separates them.
In times of tragedy, it is this sense of unity and compassion that transcends borders and reminds us of our shared humanity. The voices raised in protest resonate with the universal call for justice, peace, and the protection of human rights.
