The Supreme Court of India is taking decisive steps to address the ethnic violence in Manipur by proposing the establishment of special courts dedicated to the swift trial of related cases. On Friday, a bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, urged investigative bodies to accelerate their efforts in pending investigations.
Special Courts for Expedited Trials
The court expressed its intention to form special courts, potentially in partnership with the State of Manipur and the High Courts of Manipur and Gauhati. These courts are envisioned to conduct day-to-day trials, addressing the significant delays that have characterized ongoing investigations. The CJI emphasized the importance of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Special Investigation Teams (SITs) concluding their investigations promptly and filing charge sheets to facilitate this process.
Background of the Manipur Violence
The violence in Manipur arose from resistance by certain tribal groups to the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes list, as per an April 19, 2023, directive from the Manipur High Court. This directive sparked ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, leading to significant unrest. The Supreme Court stepped in, taking suo motu cognizance following the circulation of a video depicting two women being paraded naked. The Supreme Court has since issued numerous directives to curb violence and assist victims. Notably, the Manipur High Court withdrew its April 2023 order in 2024.
Progress and Challenges in Investigations
The SITs are currently handling 3,020 cases across eight districts in Manipur, with charge sheets filed in only 301 cases. Trials have commenced in 10 cases, with charges framed in 41 cases. Additionally, the CBI has filed charge sheets in 21 of the 31 cases transferred to it, with ongoing supplementary investigations in 11 cases. Closure reports have been filed in six cases, three of which have been accepted, while four cases remain under investigation.
The CBI has reported several challenges in completing these investigations, including a volatile law and order situation, displacement of witnesses, and language barriers due to multiple regional dialects. Furthermore, the prolonged suspension of internet services and restricted movement have hampered digital evidence collection and field investigations.
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Supreme Court’s Directives
The court has acknowledged these challenges but insisted that investigations reach their logical conclusion promptly. It directed the State Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police to fully support the investigative agencies and explore ways to overcome these hurdles. Additionally, the court requested a comprehensive status report on ongoing investigations and details of all FIRs where investigations are either pending or charge sheets have been filed. This data will inform the necessary strength of the proposed special courts.
