Imphal, April 11: Yumnam Khemchand Singh on April 11 visited a relief camp in Imphal East district and met the family of a seven-year-old internally displaced girl who was recently raped and murdered, an incident that has triggered widespread outrage across the state.
During the visit, the Chief Minister interacted with the bereaved family as well as other internally displaced persons (IDPs) residing at the camp. He expressed deep condolences and assured that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure justice for the victim. The state government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the family.
In a statement shared on social media, Singh said the welfare of IDPs remains a top priority and that he had directed officials to take immediate action after hearing their concerns. He emphasised that the government is focused on easing hardships, reducing distress, and ensuring timely rehabilitation and resettlement for affected families.
The minor, originally from Moreh, had gone missing on April 4 and was found dead the next day under Singjamei Bridge in Imphal West. The incident has heightened concerns over the safety of displaced communities living in relief camps.
L Nivedita stated that authorities are making all efforts to ensure justice for the victim’s family, adding that the accused has already been remanded in custody.
During the interaction, several displaced residents appealed for early resettlement in their native areas and called for enhanced security, including the deployment of an IRB battalion in Moreh. Responding to these demands, the Chief Minister assured that steps would be taken to facilitate their return while urging communities to rebuild trust and restore harmony.
Meanwhile, the accused, Laishram Lanngamba (28), was produced before the Court of Special Judge under the POCSO Act in Imphal East on April 10 under tight security by police and has been remanded to judicial custody.
The visit underscores the government’s efforts to address both the immediate humanitarian concerns and the broader issues of safety and rehabilitation faced by displaced populations in Manipur.
