The Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) has issued a statutory advisory expressing serious concern over recent incidents that it described as “grave violations of child rights,” and has urged authorities to exercise restraint in handling public protests. The Commission said it has taken suo motu cognisance — acting on its own motion — of a case in which a pre‑nursery child, under four years old, was injured by tear‑gas shelling in the Singjamei Kakwa Ashem Leikai residential area on the night of April 16, 2026. The child, reportedly not participating in any protest, was near his home when the injury occurred; the MCPCR said the harm was allegedly caused by the indiscriminate use of force by combined security personnel.
The advisory also recalled two earlier matters that the Commission had taken suo motu cognisance of: the alleged sexual assault and murder of a minor internally displaced girl whose body was recovered beneath Singjamei Bridge in Imphal East, and the killing of two minor children in a rocket‑bomb attack while they slept in Tronglaobi village, Bishnupur district. The MCPCR said spot inquiries into both incidents have already been conducted and that it will continue strict monitoring until due process is completed and justice is ensured.
Warning that these episodes point to serious threats to the life, safety and dignity of children, the Commission urged all agencies to use maximum restraint when dealing with democratic and non‑violent protests, particularly in residential areas. It cautioned against indiscriminate measures — including tear‑gas shelling — that can cause civilian injuries, property damage and widespread panic, with children especially vulnerable to physical harm and psychological trauma.
The MCPCR stressed that security force actions must be proportionate and follow established protocols, with the best interests and safety of children prioritized. It also issued a parallel appeal to the public, asking parents and caregivers not to involve very young children in protests or expose them to volatile situations.
The advisory was issued by MCPCR Chairperson Keisam Pradipkumar, with copies sent to the Director General of Police, the Director of Social Welfare and the Information and Public Relations Department for wider dissemination.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/manipur-child-rights-panel-flags-grave-violations-issues-advisory-over-use-of-force-1377367-2026-04-17?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-04-17 20:30:00
