Supreme Court to Hear Pleas on Manipur Violence & Law Enforcement Dysfunction
The Supreme Court is set to hear pleas from victims who were paraded naked and a batch of petitions relating to the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur, along with addressing the breakdown of law and order within the state. The apex court has expressed concern over the absolute breakdown of law enforcement machinery and has summoned the Director General of Police (DGP) of Manipur to explain the situation.
On August 1, a bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud instructed the state government to provide a detailed statement regarding the incidents of violence, including the dates of occurrence, FIR registrations, witness statements, and arrests made. The bench criticized the sluggish investigation, emphasizing the need for prompt action and arrests to restore public confidence.
The Supreme Court noted that as of July 25, there have been 6,496 FIRs registered in Manipur, accompanied by 150 deaths, 502 injuries, 5,101 cases of arson, and 7 arrests made in connection with 11 FIRs. However, the court stressed the importance of expediting investigations into serious offenses like bodily harm, property destruction, religious conflicts, murders, and rapes.
The court’s objective is to ensure accountability and regain control over the law and order situation that has evidently deteriorated in Manipur. The Supreme Court highlighted the need for the police to take immediate and effective action, expressing skepticism towards performative arrests that do not address the underlying issues.
The hearing aims to address the pleas of victims who have suffered humiliation and trauma as a result of the violence, as well as provide justice and a sense of security to the affected communities. The Supreme Court is expected to take a balanced approach, considering different perspectives and opinions to ensure a fair resolution.
By resuming the hearing of the Manipur violence case, the Supreme Court seeks to send a strong message that the breakdown of law and order will not be tolerated. The court aims to restore public faith in the authorities and ensure that adequate measures are taken to prevent any further escalation of violence.
As the Supreme Court proceeds with the hearing, it is hoped that justice will be served, bringing an end to the violence and dysfunction in Manipur. The court’s efforts to hold the responsible parties accountable and restore peace and stability within the state are of utmost importance for the well-being and safety of its citizens.
