SupremeCourt – Top Court Seeks CBI Report on Manipur Cases
SupremeCourt – The Supreme Court on Friday asked the Central Bureau of Investigation to present a detailed progress report within two weeks on cases linked to the ethnic unrest in Manipur. The agency is currently examining 11 First Information Reports connected to the violence that erupted in the state last year. The court also underlined that recommendations made by the Justice Gita Mittal committee regarding relief and rehabilitation must be implemented in both letter and spirit.
Court Emphasises Accountability in Ongoing Probe
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi directed the CBI to file a status report in response to an application moved by advocate Vrinda Grover, who is representing one of the affected individuals. The judges stressed that transparency in the investigation is essential and that the rights of victims should remain central to the legal process.
During the hearing, the bench noted that free legal assistance must be extended to victims involved in these cases. It observed that if local legal aid counsel are unable to function due to earlier tensions in the region, lawyers from the Guwahati bar could be assigned to ensure uninterrupted representation. The court’s remarks signaled its intent to prevent procedural delays that could hinder justice.
Focus on Relief and Rehabilitation Measures
The Justice Gita Mittal committee, constituted to monitor rehabilitation efforts, has already placed 42 reports before the court outlining steps taken to support those displaced or affected by the violence. The panel is chaired by Justice Gita Mittal, former Chief Justice of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, and includes Justice Shalini P Joshi and Justice Asha Menon.
The Supreme Court reiterated that the committee’s recommendations must be followed carefully, particularly in matters concerning housing, compensation, and access to essential services for victims. The judges made it clear that rehabilitation is not merely an administrative formality but a critical part of restoring normalcy in the conflict-hit areas.
Government Assures Improvement in Ground Situation
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the bench that conditions in Manipur have stabilized compared to the months immediately following the outbreak of violence. According to the government’s submission, routine activities have resumed in several districts, and law enforcement agencies continue to monitor the situation closely.
The court took note of these submissions but maintained that judicial oversight would continue until it is satisfied that both investigative and relief efforts are proceeding effectively. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on February 26.
Background of the Unrest
The violence began on May 3, 2023, following a rally organized by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur. Tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities escalated rapidly, leading to widespread clashes across multiple districts. Homes were damaged, thousands were displaced, and security forces, including paramilitary units, were deployed to contain the unrest.
The incident drew national attention and led to multiple legal petitions seeking independent investigation and comprehensive relief measures. The transfer of select cases to the CBI was aimed at ensuring impartiality and restoring public confidence in the investigative process.
As the probe continues, the Supreme Court’s latest direction reinforces its focus on accountability, victim support, and timely legal proceedings. The coming weeks will determine how effectively investigative agencies and state authorities respond to the court’s instructions.