AMMSO Slams Killing of Chesam Abdul Kadir as Terrorism, Crime Against Humanity
Calls out state’s failure, communal profiling, and rising lawlessness
The All Manipur Muslim Students’ Organisation (AMMSO) has strongly condemned the abduction, enforced disappearance, and brutal murder of Chesam Abdul Kadir, a differently-abled man from Paobitek, Imphal West. In a statement issued on Tuesday, AMMSO termed the act as not just a heinous crime, but an act of terrorism and a crime against humanity.
Kadir’s body was found buried along the riverbank at Samurou Naorem, days after his disappearance. AMMSO alleged that the murder was committed by members of the Arambai Tenggol Unit 27 Quick Response Team and further implicated a local Meira Paibi leader. The organisation expressed grave concern over the targeting of one of society’s most vulnerable individuals and called it a reflection of the deepening moral and legal breakdown in the state.
“This is not just a heinous crime—it is an act of terrorism and a grave crime against humanity,” AMMSO declared in the statement signed by its GHQ President, Imtiyas Heibokmayum
“Where is the State?”: AMMSO Questions Governance Collapse
Demands immediate action and accountability
The organisation accused the Manipur Government of abdicating its responsibility, stating that in the last two years, effective governance has collapsed under the weight of armed militias who now act as “self-styled guardians” of the people.
“Where is the State? Where is the Government of Manipur?” the statement asked. “Those claiming to fight for the ‘protection’ or ‘reformation’ of Manipur have instead become destroyers of its centuries-old social fabric.”
The Real ‘Huranba’: Looters of Peace and Resources
Communal profiling and resource theft denounced
AMMSO condemned the labeling of Abdul Kadir as a “suspected thief,” describing it as a baseless and dangerous stereotype often associated with the Pangal community. “Labeling Abdul Kadir as a ‘suspected thief’ is not only baseless but also reflects a dangerous stereotype of Pangals,” it said.
“The real looters are those who steal lives, peace, and resources—those who divert development funds meant for marginalized communities like the Pangals. These are the real Huranba (thieves).”
Pattern of Targeted Violence Against Pangals
List of recent attacks highlighted
AMMSO linked Kadir’s murder to a broader trend of hate crimes against the Pangal community, citing a string of recent incidents:
- Sagolsumpham Sahir, a driver from Kshetrigao, was beaten to death in Takhel.
- Tampakmayum Aktar, a young boy from Kwakta, was tortured—forced to eat pork and had a nail driven into his leg.
- Shah Nawaz from Keirang was beaten to death at Andro.
- A minor girl from Jiribam was assaulted over alleged links with a Pangal youth, even though the actual accused was from Assam.
- Multiple Pangal youths have been attacked for alleged relationships with Meitei girls.
“These are not isolated incidents. These continued acts of harassment, torture, and killings have crossed all bounds of humanity,” AMMSO stated. “Enough is enough. Do not push the Pangal community beyond the limits of patience”
Civil Society’s Silence and Selective Outrage Called Out
CSOs accused of hypocrisy
AMMSO expressed disappointment over the silence of mainstream Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Manipur that claim to stand for peace and justice. “Why have they gone silent in the face of such brutality? Your hypocrisy has reached its peak,” the group said.
It however appreciated those unions and groups that have spoken up and shown solidarity with the Pangal community and demanded justice for Abdul Kadir.
Demand for Arrest of Arambai Leader, Warning of Mass Uprising
Non-action branded as invitation to unrest
The organisation demanded the immediate arrest of Arambai Tenggol leader Longjam Khaba, who they claim is the main accused. “Why has the main accused not been arrested? Is his non-arrest a deliberate act? Is justice in Manipur selective?” the statement questioned.
Calling on the government to deliver justice, AMMSO warned of a possible mass uprising if justice is denied. “Your inaction is not just a failure of governance; it is an invitation to unrest,” it warned.
Call for Responsible Social Media and Police Action
Appeal for peace, unity, and vigilance
The statement urged all communities in Manipur to refrain from circulating old videos and inflammatory content on Facebook and WhatsApp that incite confusion and tension. It also called on police authorities to act decisively. “We must stand united for our shared values, peaceful coexistence, and against fringe elements,” it said.
AMMSO ended its statement with a powerful call for justice, reaffirming its stand against communal violence, impunity, and discrimination. “We stand united against communal forces. We demand justice for Chesam Abdul Kadir. We demand an end to violence, impunity, and discrimination against the marginalized,” the statement concluded.