"India Confronts Rape as a Weapon in Manipur: Modi Breaks Silence on Ethnic Violence"

A viral video showing the molestation and assault of two women in the violence-hit state of Manipur, India, has shed light on the use of rape as a weapon during conflict. The incident occurred almost three months ago but only gained public attention after the video went viral on Twitter. One of the women was gang-raped, while a third woman was forced to strip. Manipur has been plagued by ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities, with reports of shootings, looting, and sexual assault. Rape has historically been used as a means of revenge against the "other" during conflicts, with women's bodies seen as a site of honor for their communities. The state's response to the assault has been criticized for its apathy, with the first arrest made only after the video gained widespread attention. The incident raises questions about the police and administration's role in addressing sexual violence.