Crime
Supreme Court Monitors Progress of Trials Linked to Manipur Unrest
The Supreme Court directed authorities to expedite trials related to the 2023 Manipur violence and sought a fresh status report, while hearing a CBI plea challenging bail granted to two accused in a case involving alleged sexual assault and public humiliation of women.
The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday observed that trials connected to the 2023 violence in Manipur should be expedited and asked authorities to submit a detailed status report regarding the progress of investigations and court proceedings.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi made the observation while hearing a petition filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation.
The CBI had approached the apex court challenging the decision of the Gauhati High Court to grant bail to two accused individuals in a sensitive case linked to the Manipur violence.
The case concerns allegations of sexual assault and the public humiliation of women during the ethnic violence that shook the state in 2023 and drew nationwide attention.
During the hearing, the bench referred to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) report, which stated that chargesheets had already been filed in 207 cases involving more than 400 accused persons. The court noted the seriousness of the matter and stressed the need for speedy trials to ensure justice for victims.
The Supreme Court has been closely monitoring several cases arising from the Manipur violence, including incidents involving killings, arson, displacement, and crimes against women. The violence, which erupted in 2023, led to widespread unrest and significant humanitarian concerns across the state.
The matter is expected to come up again after authorities submit the updated status report sought by the apex court.
