May 23, May 29, June 19: Three letters to Manipur officials on violence against women went unnoticed

On May 29, she wrote to Joshi, saying that the NCW “has taken cognizance” of the violence that had erupted in Manipur on May 3.

“… It is extremely pertinent to respect the dignity and Fundamental Rights of all women and girls by ensuring food, safety, shelter and healthcare including distribution of sanitary napkins and special provision for lactating women in temporary shelters. In addition, a mechanism needs to be in place for quick response to the incidences of violence and harassment of women. Keeping in view the urgency and significance of the matter, I request the state government for immediate intervention in the matter and support to the affected women and take appropriate action in this regard,” the letter said.

On June 19, she wrote another letter to Joshi, saying that the NCW had received a representation “regarding the recent unfortunate clashes amongst the communities in Manipur”. This representation, according to the NCW, was from “individuals outside Manipur, out of which one was from outside India”.

“… I am forwarding herewith the representation requesting the state government for immediate support to the affected women and take appropriate action in this regard,” the letter to the Chief Secretary said.

However, the NCW chief did not respond to queries by The Indian Express on whether the representation flagged the incident of women being paraded naked and sexually assaulted by a mob, which took place on May 4 according to police. The incident came to light after a video was widely circulated on Wednesday.

On Thursday, following widespread outrage over the incident, Sharma wrote to both the Chief Secretary and the DGP, flagging the video and asking for an action taken report in four days.

The Indian Express has not received a response from Joshi to queries regarding Sharma’s letters.