Fake encounter victims’ relatives pin hope on cop Herojit

By A Staff Reporter

IMPHAL | Jan 9

Extra-judicial Execution Victim Families Association, Manipur (EEVFAM) president Takhellembam Renu appreciated the stance of head constable Thounaojam Herojit to divulge insider information which point to systematic institutionalization of fake encounters in the state.

Addressing a press conference at EEVFAM office at Kwaikeithel today, the activist pointed out that the hearing held by the Supreme Court yesterday is a positive direction in bringing justice to the families of the fake encounter victims. She, however, lamented that the CBI is not taking up the investigation process in its entirety.

Renu said that only a fraction of the 92 cases inquired by the CBI special investigation team are being investigated. “First investigation reports have been registered in only 11 cases. This is not exactly what we had expected. The investigation seems lethargic,” she lamented.

She further stated that the families of the victims of fake encounter killings are awaiting the verdict of the Supreme Court in the hope that justice will be delivered.

She said that the status report of the other remaining cases will be given on Jan 15 and further that the CBI director has been directed to make a personal appearance the next day. “We hope that some positive developments will come up,” she said.

Pointing to Herojit and his affidavit submitted, Renu contended that the stance of the head constable is much appreciated and he may not be the only one involved in such fake encounter killings. We know that he will also be punished but he acted under orders given by his superiors. We want the other higher authorities to also be held accountable. We still have no justice yet,” Renu asserted.

Basanta Wareppa, a human lights lawyer assisting the EEVFAM petitioner said that the case taken up by the Supreme Court in regard to accepting Herojit’s affidavit is a positive sign. “We have given footages to the court which supports Herojit’s claim in regard to the BT fake encounter incident. His affidavit stating that he maintained dairies of fake encounters brings another new light to the case. We have also submitted video-graphic evidence to the court too,” Basanta said.

EEVFAM members maintained in the conference that they expect justice to be done by the Supreme Court and appeals to the public to co-operate with the proceedings of the case in the future.