New Delhi, Aug 08: Manipur has been grappling with ethnic clashes that have resulted in significant loss of lives and displacement of people since May 3. The violence has been particularly brutal towards women, with numerous cases of crimes against them reported during this period.
In response to the severity of the situation and the need for justice and accountability, the Supreme Court of India has stepped in to monitor the cases of violence against women in Manipur. This move aims to ensure a fair and objective investigation, provide relief and rehabilitation measures, and restore faith in the rule of law.
The Apex Court’s intervention comes as a significant step towards addressing the urgent humanitarian crisis and protecting the rights of the victims. The court has ordered the formation of a high-powered committee, consisting of three retired women high court judges, who will visit Manipur to assess the efficacy of rescue, relief, and rehabilitation measures undertaken by the government.
This committee, led by justices Gita Mittal, Shalini P Joshi, and Asha Menon, will have a broad-based mandate, encompassing various aspects of humanitarian nature. Their objective is to ensure that the relief and rehabilitation efforts reach the affected individuals and communities promptly and efficiently.
Furthermore, the court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct investigations into at least 12 cases of crimes against women that have been brought to their attention. One such case involves a deeply disturbing video clip of two Kuki women being stripped and paraded naked by a mob. The suo motu cognizance taken by the Supreme Court signifies its commitment to addressing heinous crimes and delivering justice to the victims and their families.
To ensure impartiality and transparency in the investigative process, the court has appointed Datta Padsalgikar, a seasoned law enforcement professional, to oversee the CBI’s investigation. His role as the overseer is to monitor the progress of the investigations and submit periodical reports to the court. This additional layer of oversight will instill confidence in the fairness of the investigations and help restore trust in the criminal justice system.
In response to the Manipur government’s efforts to handle the vast number of First Information Reports (FIRs) registered in connection with the violence, the Supreme Court has ordered the formation of 42 special investigation teams (SITs) across six districts. Each SIT will have an inspector-level officer, and the investigations will be supervised by officers of the rank of deputy inspector general (DIG) from outside Manipur. This move aims to prevent any potential local biases and ensure a thorough and unbiased investigation into the incidents.
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While the court is keen on monitoring the investigation and relief measures, it has refrained from ordering the transfer of the trial of the high-profile viral video case outside of Manipur at this stage. The decision is driven by the understanding that the investigations are still underway, and a premature transfer of the trial might not be appropriate. The court is likely to make a well-informed decision after considering all aspects of the case and the investigation reports.
The intervention of the Supreme Court comes after a long period of unrest and suffering in Manipur. The ethnic clashes between the Kukis and Meiteis have deeply divided the state and caused immense distress to the people. The violence has not only claimed lives but also resulted in the destruction of homes, neighborhoods, and places of worship. The need for relief, remedial measures, compensation, and rehabilitation is dire, and the court’s proactive approach is commendable.
With the appointment of an all-women committee of retired high court judges, the court has shown its commitment to bringing a gender-sensitive approach to the entire process. This committee, led by highly experienced judges Gita Mittal, Shalini P Joshi, and Asha Menon, is entrusted with overseeing the investigation, relief, remedial measures, compensation, rehabilitation, and restoration of homes and places of worship. The committee’s presence ensures that women’s issues and concerns are given due attention and that their voices are heard during this critical phase.
The violence in Manipur has exposed a breakdown of constitutional machinery, which is deeply concerning. The Supreme Court’s involvement sends a strong message that such lapses will not be tolerated, and accountability will be demanded. The court has rightly summoned the state’s director general of police (DGP) to explain the shortcomings in handling the situation and the delay in bringing perpetrators to justice.
The road to justice and healing for the people of Manipur is long and arduous, but the Supreme Court’s proactive measures provide a glimmer of hope. The monitoring of cases of crime against women and the overall relief and rehabilitation efforts will play a pivotal role in rebuilding trust and peace in the region. The involvement of experienced women judges further highlights the importance of gender sensitivity and inclusivity in the pursuit of justice.
However, it is crucial to acknowledge that justice cannot be delivered through legal mechanisms alone. The root causes of the ethnic clashes in Manipur need to be addressed through a holistic approach that involves dialogue, reconciliation, and socio-economic development. Long-term peace-building efforts are essential to prevent future outbreaks of violence and ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens, especially vulnerable groups like women and children.
Supreme Court’s decision to monitor cases of violence against women in Manipur reflects its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the constitutional rights of all citizens. The establishment of the high-powered committee of women judges and the appointment of an overseer for CBI investigations demonstrate the court’s dedication to bringing accountability and justice to the victims and their families.
However, it is vital for the government, civil society, and the people of Manipur to work collectively toward sustainable peace, reconciliation, and development in the region. Only through a comprehensive and inclusive approach can the wounds of the past be healed, and the foundations for a peaceful and prosperous future be laid.
