Supreme Court expresses concern over loss of lives and properties in Manipur violence

The Supreme Court on Monday expressed concern over the loss of lives and properties in Manipur during the violence between Meitei and Kuki communities, and sought a status report from the Centre and State governments on the steps being taken for safety, rehabilitation of displaced people and protection of religious places.

A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala stressed taking adequate measures to restore normalcy over there. “We are concerned very deeply about the loss of lives and properties,” the bench said.

The bench asked Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and Manipur government, to ensure that due arrangements are made in relief camps in terms of food and medicines.It further told the Centre to ensure that steps are taken to rehabilitate displaced persons and to protect places of worship.The apex court posted the matter for hearing on May 17.During the hearing, CJI Chandrachud asked Solicitor General about how many relief camps there and how many people are in the relief camps. The bench also asked what arrangements have been made since this is a “humanitarian issue”.

Solicitor General told the top court that 52 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and 105 columns of Army/Assam Rifles have been deployed in Manipur.Flag marches have been conducted in disturbed areas, Mehta told the bench, adding that a senior police officer has been appointed by the Centre as a security advisor and also a senior IAS officer was repatriated from central deputation to Manipur to function as its Chief Secretary amid the emergency situation.The movement of stranded being facilitated by security forces, SG added.

Mehta further apprised the top court that peace meetings have been conducted. Helicopters and drones were used and constant vigil is being maintained by paramilitary forces and Army.