DCW Chief Defies Denial, Heads to Manipur to Interact With Sexual Violence Survivors

New Delhi: Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chief, Swati Maliwal, announced her decision to travel to strife-torn Manipur despite the alleged denial of permission from the state government. She sought to interact with survivors of sexual violence in the region.

In a tweet, Ms. Maliwal stated that the Manipur government had recommended postponing her visit due to the law and order situation. However, after careful consideration, she decided to proceed as planned and requested an urgent meeting with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh during her visit.

Manipur Govt recommended I consider postponing my visit due to law and order situation. After deliberation on their suggestion, have decided to fly to Imphal as planned. Sought time from Manipur CM. Will meet him & request him to come along to visit the sexual assault survivors. pic.twitter.com/Z8qycrnNQR

— Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) July 23, 2023

Ms. Maliwal shared a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, urging him to facilitate her visit, ensuring she wouldn’t cause any issues for the state government. The purpose of her visit was to address human rights violations and sexual assault cases in Manipur, and she sought the Chief Minister’s support in visiting the violence-affected relief camps where the victims were staying.

In related news, Manipur Police arrested five men and apprehended a juvenile in connection with the heinous act of parading two women naked in Kangpokpi district on May 4.

Ms. Maliwal’s determination to visit Manipur and support the survivors of sexual violence highlights the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for attention and action to protect the rights of women and girls in the state.