Jiribam Violence: Ten Dead Bodies Still in Silchar Medical College’s Morgue – What We Know So Far

The aftermath of violence near Jakuradhor, close to Borobekra Police Station, has led to the arrival of 12 bodies at Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH). Of these, 10 have been identified as alleged Kuki militants, reportedly killed in a gunfight with Central Forces. These bodies have since been handed over to their claimants.

However, two of the 12 remain unidentified and are still in the hospital’s morgue. Additionally, six more bodies, believed to be those of missing Meitei individuals, were brought to SMCH for post-mortem examination. These individuals were allegedly abducted from a relief camp. The deceased include Yurembam Rani Devi (60), Telam Thobi Devi (31), Telam Thajamanbi Devi (8), Laishram Chingkheinganba Singh (2.5), and Laishram Langamba Singh (8 months). The violence near Jakuradhor had escalated into a gunfight between security forces and alleged Kuki militants, resulting in the deaths of 10 militants. On the same night, six Meitei individuals seeking refuge at a relief camp were reportedly abducted.

Meanwhile, a body identified as that of a Kuki man, brought to SMCH on 16 November, is believed to be of a missing individual. Kuki Inpi, a Manipur-based organisation, claimed he was abducted from Jirighat in Cachar. However, SP Cachar, Numal Mahatta, refuted these claims, citing police investigations that traced the individual’s last known location to within Manipur’s jurisdiction.

Another body in the morgue belongs to a civilian from Jiribam, identified as a member of the Meitei community, who succumbed to bullet injuries. This brings the total number of bodies currently at SMCH to 10.

On the other hand, tensions flared at SMCH when the 10 bodies of alleged Kuki militants were handed over to various associations protesting outside the Anatomy Department. Members of the Hmar Association and Cachar Police were in discussions over certain demands when a mob began pelting stones at police officials.

Police sources confirmed that videographic evidence of the incident is being reviewed, and action is expected against those involved in the attack.