The escalating ethnic conflict in Manipur, which has resulted in the tragic loss of over 100 lives, has entered a new phase of uncertainty as the Supreme Court declined to intervene urgently. The court refused to expedite hearing a plea for Army protection for the beleaguered minority Kuki tribals, pushed forward by the Manipur Tribal Forum, amidst allegations of violence from communal groups.
The vacation bench, presided by Justices Surya Kant and M M Sundresh, held the view that any interference might aggravate the already volatile situation. The bench acknowledged the gravity of the law and order issue but advocated for the administrative machinery to take the reins.
The plea was argued by senior advocate Colin Gonsalves on behalf of the NGO. He put forth the grim prediction that another 50 lives could be lost before the next hearing, scheduled for July 17. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the state, rebuffed the urgency and highlighted the efforts of security agencies to restore peace.
At the heart of this turbulence is the Manipur High Court’s order to consider granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the majority Meitei community, a move that has been met with fierce resistance from the tribal communities and has sparked a chain of violent outbreaks. Neighbouring state Nagaland’s Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, expressed his concern over the escalating unrest and the associated loss of life and property. However, he refrained from making additional comments, given the sensitivities involved.
On a related note, the Manipur High Court has ordered the restoration of limited internet services in certain locations to facilitate urgent and essential tasks, especially for students during the admission process. The internet had been restricted since May 3 due to the unfolding violence.
