Amid the ongoing humanitarian and law-and-order crisis in Manipur, the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) has called upon the state’s Governor, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, to take urgent and direct action on matters concerning children’s welfare and Covid preparedness. A delegation of MCPCR officials met the Governor at Raj Bhawan in Imphal on Tuesday, highlighting the immediate need for a comprehensive child rights policy and dedicated healthcare facilities for children affected by the twin challenges of violence and disease. The delegation, led by MCPCR Chairperson Keisam Pradipkumar, included member Anita Chabungbam and programme officer Sumel Yumnam. They presented a detailed memorandum urging the Governor to facilitate the formulation and implementation of a State Policy for Children by 2025, making Manipur the first North Eastern state to adopt such a policy. The commission stressed that this policy is crucial in addressing the growing vulnerabilities of children, especially those displaced or orphaned by the continuing ethnic and communal strife. “Our children are the most affected in this crisis. Many have lost access to education, healthcare, and emotional security. We must act now to safeguard their rights and ensure they are not left behind,” said Chairperson Pradipkumar during the meeting.
One of the key issues raised during the discussion was the emerging surge in Covid-19 infections among children, particularly in overcrowded relief camps housing Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). The MCPCR urged the state government to establish dedicated paediatric Covid care centres, equipped with child-specific treatment protocols and facilities. The delegation expressed serious concern that current health infrastructure is insufficient to cater to the needs of children, especially in the wake of a possible new wave of Covid infections. “The living conditions in many relief camps do not allow for proper social distancing or hygienic practices. Children are at high risk and need specialised care,” said member Anita Chabungbam. They also noted that many of the IDP families living in temporary shelters lack access to basic healthcare, sanitation, and mental health support for their children. The MCPCR believes that upgrading relief camp infrastructure and ensuring basic amenities like clean water, sanitation, and nutritional support is critical for preventing disease outbreaks. In addition to immediate health concerns, the MCPCR demanded better housing and support systems for IDPs in both hill and valley districts. They argued that existing temporary shelters are inadequate for long-term habitation and called for a systematic rehabilitation plan, especially for children who have been displaced from their homes and schools.
“There is an urgent need for the state to build resilience within its communities, starting with its youngest and most vulnerable. A State Child Policy must address education, healthcare, mental health, nutrition, and protection from abuse or trafficking,” said Sumel Yumnam. The delegation also warned that the absence of a long-term strategy for displaced children could have generational consequences. They urged the Governor to use his constitutional powers to influence the Governor-in-Council for urgent approval and rollout of the policy. The MCPCR’s concerns were not limited to welfare and health infrastructure. The delegation used the opportunity to appeal for peace and reconciliation across the strife-torn state. They stressed that the continued unrest has deeply scarred children from all communities, including both the Meitei and Kuki groups. “Children are witnessing violence, displacement, and trauma on a daily basis. This is not the environment in which they should grow up. The psychological damage could last a lifetime unless we intervene collectively and compassionately,” said Pradipkumar.
