IMPHAL: In a bold move, Swati Maliwal, the Chief of the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW), arrived in Imphal, Manipur, despite the state government initially denying her permission to visit the strife-stricken northeastern state. Maliwal's primary objective for the visit was to meet the survivors of a sexual assault incident, which had gained widespread attention through a viral video, and assess whether they had received adequate legal aid, counseling, and compensation.
Upon landing in Imphal, Swati Maliwal prioritized a meeting with Chief Minister N Biren Singh to discuss the situation and her intentions. She emphasized that her visit was not politically motivated and appealed to the Manipur government to allow her to assist the people of the state during this difficult time.
Speaking to media, Maliwal stated, "I will directly go to the CM's Office, I want to meet Chief Minister N Biren Singh. I want to meet the sexual abuse survivors and see if they have got legal aid, counseling or any compensation. I appeal to the Manipur Govt that I have come here to help the people of the state, please allow me to do that."
In her efforts to extend support to the survivors and draw attention to the critical issue of sexual assault in the region, Swati Maliwal also expressed her desire to meet with Governor Anusuiya Uikey during her stay in Manipur.
Earlier in the day, Maliwal had accused the state government of denying her permission to visit Manipur, citing the 'law and order situation' as the reason for opposing the initial permit that allowed her entry into the state. However, she remained undeterred, asserting that her presence was vital to address the law and order challenges and assist the survivors.
In her statements to media, Maliwal shared, "I received a letter from the Manipur government suggesting that I should postpone my visit considering the law and order situation in the state. I want to go there only because there is a law and order situation and the sexual assault survivors. Manipur CM himself claimed that there are hundreds of similar cases. I want to visit the state to extend help."
As her visit gained attention and significance, Maliwal also called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani to join her in visiting Manipur. By urging higher authorities to pay attention to the situation, Maliwal aimed to garner more support and resources for the survivors and the community at large.
Swati Maliwal's determined stance and commitment to supporting survivors of sexual assault in Manipur resonated with many across the nation. Her visit and efforts underscored the importance of addressing such critical issues and providing necessary assistance to those affected. With her plea to the central government, she sought a united front in addressing the pressing challenges faced by the people of Manipur.
Despite facing initial denial of permission, Swati Maliwal's arrival in Imphal marked a significant step towards supporting survivors of sexual assault and highlighting the urgency of the law and order situation in the northeastern state. Her visit brought attention to the need for assistance, counseling, and compensation for the survivors, while also calling on higher authorities to address the matter effectively.
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