Inhumane Jail Conditions at Senapati: KOHUR Raises Alarm, Demands Urgent Intervention

THE Kuki Organization for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) has issued a strong public condemnation of the alleged inhumane and degrading conditions prevailing at the Senapati Temporary Jail in Manipur. 

 

In a press release dated July 12, 2025, the organization expressed deep anguish over what it describes as "systemic neglect and custodial apathy" on the part of the Manipur state administration and prison authorities.

According to the release, inmates—many of whom belong to the Kuki-Zo tribal community—are reportedly being denied basic human necessities such as potable water, sufficient food, sanitary facilities, and medical care. KOHUR termed the situation "a gross custodial abuse" and a "direct breach of both Indian constitutional protections and international human rights standards."

The organization stated that repeated appeals from civil society groups and human rights bodies have been ignored by the authorities. It highlighted what it perceives as a broader pattern of institutional bias and discrimination against the Kuki-Zo people, particularly since the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur on May 3, 2023.

Underlining the gravity of the situation, the group criticised the Manipur government's failure to take any meaningful steps to investigate or remedy the conditions in the jail. KOHUR invoked Article 21 of the Indian Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, stressing that even prisoners are entitled to life with dignity and humane treatment.

KOHUR also questioned how such "primitive and degrading conditions" could exist in a democratic nation and called it an alarming collapse of the rule of law and accountability in the hill districts.

The organization has issued an urgent appeal for immediate action, calling on:

The Hon'ble President of India and the Hon'ble Governor of Manipur to take suo motu cognizance of the reported violations.

The Deputy Commissioner of Senapati District to inspect the jail and ensure emergency provision of essential needs.

The Manipur State Human Rights Commission and the National Human Rights Commission to initiate a full-fledged investigation and publish findings transparently.

Judicial authorities to monitor compliance with custodial standards in line with Supreme Court judgments on prisoners' rights.

The press release was issued by the Department of Information and Publicity, Kuki Organization for Human Rights Trust, from its headquarters in Churachandpur.

For further details, KOHUR can be contacted via email at kumhur96@yahoo.com or through their official website kohur.org.

Photo: Representation Only.

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