IMPHAL: The Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) today expressed serious concern over the number of suicides in relief camps across the state. The observation was made in the wake of a visit to the Mekola Relief Centre, housed at Mekola Higher Secondary School where a 20-year-old woman took her own life on January 7.
A delegation led by Md. Habibur Rahman and Chabungbam Anita came to the camp to study living conditions of women and children. One of the significant reasons for a rise in problems related to mental health, depression, fear, and loss of hope in general among inmates, is the prolonged stay, with some being above 19 months.
MCPCR concluded that there is an urgent necessity for collective and coordinated efforts in order to alleviate the growing mental health crisis. The key recommendations included the launching of psychosocial support programs, life skills training, and livelihood education. The Commission further recommended improvement in the general living conditions of camps to ensure protection of the residents' mental and emotional well-being.
Manipur’s relief camps currently shelter approximately 58,000 individuals across 351 facilities. These displaced individuals have been residing in the camps since the outbreak of violence on May 3, 2023. The MCPCR’s report highlights the critical necessity of swift intervention to prevent further tragedies and improve the quality of life for those affected.
The Commission’s appeal underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of despair in the camps and implementing long-term measures to ensure the dignity and well-being of displaced communities.
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