Ethnic Violence Unchecked: Supreme Court’s Uncompromising Stand on Manipur’s Law and Order Crisis

01-08-2023 : The Supreme Court of India has continued its strong critique of the administration and security establishments in Manipur, denouncing the complete breakdown of law and order in the northeastern state during the period from May to July. The state has been grappling with deadly ethnic violence, and the apex court has expressed concern over the failure of the law to protect its citizens.

During the proceedings, the Supreme Court questioned the state government about the actions taken against policemen who handed over survivors, as seen in a viral video, to the violent crowd. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the bench, headed by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, that the government intends to transfer 11 FIRs related to crimes against women to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

However, the court expressed dissatisfaction with the state of law and order in Manipur, emphasizing that the state police seem incapable of conducting effective investigations and maintaining control over the situation. Chief Justice Chandrachud remarked that the situation in the state was so dire for two months that it hindered the registration of FIRs, leaving the people without recourse to the law’s protection.

While Mehta mentioned the transfer of 11 FIRs to the CBI, senior advocates raised concerns about other cases that had not been addressed, such as the burning of a woman and the killing of a young boy. The court stressed the importance of providing comprehensive and accurate information on the nature of offences in FIRs to enable effective investigation and legal action.

The status report submitted by the Manipur government revealed alarming statistics, including 150 deaths during the period of violence, with 59 fatalities between May 3 and May 5, and 28 deaths between May 27 and May 29. Over 5,000 cases of arson and 502 injuries were also reported. Out of the total 6,500 cases, 11 FIRs pertained to crimes against women and children, with seven arrests made in connection with these cases.

The court expressed concern over the slow progress of the investigation and demanded the presence of the Director General of Police (DGP) Manipur during the next hearing to provide answers to the court’s queries. The apex court stressed the need for thorough and effective investigations, ensuring accountability for those involved in the violence, particularly the police officers responsible for handing over survivors to the mob.

The matter will be taken up for further discussion on the upcoming Monday. The Supreme Court is resolute in its commitment to uphold the rule of law and ensure justice for the victims of violence in Manipur, demanding accountability from the concerned authorities for the breakdown of law and order in the state.