New Delhi, July 31: Victims of a horrific incident in Manipur, where two women from the Kuki community were stripped naked and paraded by a mob of Meitei men, have sought justice and accountability by filing petitions in the Supreme Court against both the central and state government. The incident, which took place on May 4, has sparked outrage and calls for immediate action to ensure the safety and protection of women in the region.
The Supreme Court had taken suo moto cognizance of the matter on July 20, expressing its concern over the incident and demanding prompt action from the state and central authorities. However, due to Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s ill health, the hearing on the case had to be deferred. Now, a bench consisting of Justices JP Pardiwala and Manoj Mishra is scheduled to hear a fresh petition related to the Manipur viral video case.
The victims have filed petitions in connection with FIR number (110)(6)(2023), which was registered at the Nongpok Sekmai Police Station of B Phainom village. The incident has been termed a case of ethnic violence, involving warring tribes, and has deeply shocked the nation.
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud had condemned the incident in strong words, calling it ‘simply unacceptable’ and ‘the grossest of constitutional abuse.’ He stressed the need for the government to take immediate action in a constitutional democracy, as such incidents are deeply disturbing and have no place in a civilized society.
In response to the growing outrage, the central government, through an affidavit filed by Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla, informed the Supreme Court that the case has been transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The government also reiterated its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy towards crimes against women and sought the court’s approval to transfer the trial of the Manipur violence case outside the state.
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Moreover, the central government has requested the Supreme Court to ensure the completion of the trial in the entire case, including the gang-rape case related to the violence in Manipur, within six months. The urgency and gravity of the situation demand swift action and justice for the victims, and the court’s intervention is crucial in ensuring a fair and expeditious trial.
The incident has not only highlighted the urgent need for stringent measures to protect women from violence and abuse but has also exposed the underlying tensions and conflicts between different communities in Manipur. The incident occurred in the backdrop of long-standing ethnic conflicts between the Meitei and Kuki tribes, further exacerbating the already fragile social fabric of the region.
It is essential for both the state and central governments to address the root causes of such violence and work towards fostering an environment of harmony and inclusivity. The government must take concrete steps to promote inter-community dialogue and reconciliation, ensuring that such incidents do not recur in the future.
Transferring the trial outside the state can help in ensuring an impartial and fair investigation, free from any potential biases or influences. Additionally, expediting the trial within a fixed timeframe can provide some solace to the victims and their families, instilling a sense of confidence in the justice system.
Beyond the legal proceedings, there is a pressing need for societal introspection and collective action against violence and discrimination. Educational and awareness campaigns on gender sensitization and human rights should be initiated at all levels of society, from schools to communities.
Furthermore, it is imperative to strengthen law enforcement agencies and provide them with proper training to handle cases of violence against women effectively. Creating a safe and supportive environment for survivors to come forward and report incidents is crucial in the fight against such heinous crimes.
As the case progresses in the Supreme Court, it is hoped that justice will be served, and the perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions. The incident has served as a wake-up call for the nation to address the pressing issue of violence against women and take comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and dignity of all individuals, irrespective of their gender or ethnicity.
The petitions filed by the victims in the Supreme Court against the central and state governments represent a significant step towards seeking justice and accountability for the horrific incident in Manipur. It is now the responsibility of the judiciary and the authorities to ensure a fair and timely trial, while the society as a whole must work towards fostering an environment of equality, respect, and tolerance for all. Only through collective efforts can we create a society that truly upholds the principles of justice and human rights.
