Protests in Imphal after mentally-challenged man killed over theft claims

Widespread protests erupted in Manipur’s Imphal West district after police confirmed the brutal killing of Chesam Abdul Kadir, a 34-year-old man with mental disabilities who had gone missing last week. His decomposed body was exhumed from a riverbank on Tuesday, triggering public outrage and demands for justice.

Kadir had been missing since June 11 and was reportedly assaulted on suspicion of theft before being handed over to members of Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei organisation.

His family strongly denied the theft allegation, stating that Kadir was intellectually challenged and registered with both the Government of India’s Unique Disability ID (UDID) and the Manipur Social Welfare Department, which had certified him as 65% mentally disabled.

"He barely spoke to anyone except our parents. He couldn’t even speak clearly," said Mohd Farooq Chesam, the deceased's cousin. "On the night of June 10, he left home. CCTV footage later showed him crossing Paobitek Mayai Leikai late that night. We later learned he was assaulted about 3 km away and handed over to Arambai Tenggol Unit-23. That man was Abdul Kadir."

A missing person report was filed at Wangoi Police Station on June 11. The family was informed of his death only on June 17, when police notified them about a body buried near the Nambul River. The body was exhumed in the presence of an executive magistrate, forensic experts, and family members.

“We want justice. How can a mentally disabled man accused of theft be killed and buried like this?” Farooq said.

Following the discovery, a Joint Action Committee (JAC) was formed over the matter. JAC members and local residents held meetings and resolved not to accept the body until all accused are arrested. They announced that protests would continue until justice is served.

Police have confirmed the arrest of nine individuals so far in connection with the case, including several members of Arambai Tenggol. Authorities said a criminal investigation is ongoing and promised strict legal action against those involved.

Law enforcement officials have urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to maintain peace as the investigation progresses.