Imphal: The Extrajudicial Execution Victim Families Association, Manipur (EEVFAM) has expressed disappointment over the lack of convictions in alleged fake encounter cases, accusing successive governments of failing to ensure justice for victims’ families.
The organisation made the remarks while observing its 17th foundation day at Lamyanba Shanglen in Imphal’s Palace Compound on July 11. Members paid floral tributes to victims of alleged extrajudicial killings and reviewed the association’s long-running campaign for justice.
Speaking to reporters, EEVFAM president Renu Takhellambam said that although cases were registered in 2013 and the Supreme Court directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to investigate the alleged fake encounters, no security personnel have been convicted so far.
She alleged that one of the biggest obstacles has been the Union Ministry of Home Affairs’ refusal to grant prosecution sanction against Central security personnel accused in the cases. However, she noted that legal proceedings are continuing against more than 100 personnel of the Manipur Police.
Takhellambam also criticised successive governments for what she described as a failure to fulfil promises made to victims’ families. Referring to the 2017 Manipur Assembly elections, she said the BJP had promised to repeal the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) and support efforts to bring those accused in fake encounter cases to justice.
“We no longer believe in their words or expect any help from them,” she said.
She urged all political parties not to use AFSPA as an election issue without taking meaningful legal steps to address the concerns of victims’ families, stressing that justice should not be reduced to campaign rhetoric.
During the foundation day programme, members also held a panel discussion on the Government of India’s stated goal of ending insurgency by 2029. According to Takhellambam, participants discussed concerns over whether efforts to achieve that target could lead to a fresh wave of alleged fake encounters.
Reaffirming its commitment to the cause, EEVFAM said it would continue pursuing justice and accountability through legal channels for families of alleged extrajudicial execution victims.