Manipur violence hearing: SC pulls up police for delay in zero FIR

The Supreme Court has taken a serious note of the violence against women in strife-torn Manipur and called for the development of a comprehensive mechanism to address such incidents. The court, headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, is currently hearing a batch of petitions concerning the violence in the state. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, informed the court that the government has no objection to the apex court monitoring the investigation into the Manipur violence.

The case specifically involves a viral video in which two women were seen being paraded naked in Manipur. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the two survivors, mentioned that they have filed a petition in the matter. The survivors oppose the CBI probe and the transfer of the trial to Assam. The Supreme Court emphasized the need for a broader mechanism to prevent such incidents and to take appropriate actions.

During the hearing, various senior advocates presented their arguments and suggestions. AG R Venkataramani assured the court that he would personally monitor the CBI probe, and Kapil Sibal advocated for a court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT) instead of the CBI. Senior advocate Indira Jaising proposed a high-powered committee to visit Manipur and record statements of the survivors, with the SC deciding the course of action based on the report.

The court was also informed about targeted violence against Kuki women in the state, highlighting the urgency of the issue. The Supreme Court questioned the Manipur police for delaying the registration of a zero FIR in the case and demanded details of FIRs filed since May 3, arrests made, and actions taken.

On a previous occasion, the Supreme Court expressed deep concern over the video of the two women being paraded naked and directed the Centre and the Manipur government to take immediate steps for remedial, rehabilitative, and preventive measures.

Subsequently, on July 27, the Centre transferred the case to the CBI and urged the top court to conduct the trial outside Manipur for swift conclusion. So far, seven people have been arrested in connection with the case.

The violence in Manipur erupted on May 3 during a 'Tribal Solidarity March' organized to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status, resulting in multiple casualties and injuries. The Supreme Court's intervention and monitoring of the situation aim to address the grave issue of violence against women and seek justice for the victims in a constitutional democracy.