On 11 February 2025, Yambem Laba, a prominent human rights defender in Manipur, was forcibly taken from his home by an armed group of 15 to 20 men. The abduction occurred around 3:30 a.m., mere hours after Laba appeared on a television talk show discussing the political upheaval following Chief Minister Bhiren Singh’s resignation. For almost seven hours, the uncertainty about his fate loomed ominously before he was finally released around 11:00 a.m.
Upon his release, Laba was compelled to apologise for his critical remarks about militant groups and to vow never to appear publicly again. This targeted act appears to be a direct retaliation for his outspoken criticism of the ongoing violence in Manipur and his commentary on the political instability within the state.
A seasoned journalist and former acting chairperson of the Manipur Human Rights Commission, Laba has long faced threats and assaults due to his advocacy for human rights. His residence had been attacked previously, including an incident just days before his abduction, where militants fired shots and insisted he remove a critical Facebook post.
Concerns for Laba’s safety have been raised, particularly since this incident reflects a disturbing trend where armed groups threaten human rights defenders in Manipur. The organisation Front Line Defenders has voiced its alarm, emphasising the need for immediate protective measures.
In light of this incident, Front Line Defenders has called on Indian authorities to launch thorough investigations into both Laba’s abduction and the assaults on his home. They seek accountability for those responsible for these acts and urge the government to ensure the safety of all human rights defenders in the region, allowing them to express dissent freely and without fear of reprisal.
Yambem Laba, a human rights defender in Manipur, was abducted from his home on 11 February 2025 by an armed group. After seven hours, he was released but forced to apologise for his criticisms of militant groups. This incident underscores the ongoing violence and intimidation faced by human rights defenders in the region, prompting calls for investigations and greater protections from Front Line Defenders.
Yambem Laba’s abduction highlights the perilous climate for human rights defenders in Manipur, where voices of dissent are met with violence and intimidation. His forced apology after release underscores the oppressive atmosphere in which civil rights activists operate. The calls for investigations and protection from Front Line Defenders reflect a critical need for accountability and safety in advocating for human rights within the state.
Original Source: www.frontlinedefenders.org
