Manipur updates SC on arms recovery amid tensions

The Manipur government informed the Supreme Court on Friday of its status report on arms recovery in the aftermath of ethnic violence in the state.
The document is intended only for judicial examination, noted Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing both the Centre and Manipur. Previously, calls were made for the CBI to provide updates on investigations into 11 FIRs concerning sexual violence against women and children. The court has tasked veteran IPS officer Dattatray Padsalgikar with overseeing these investigations. Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud highlighted Padsalgikar’s esteemed reputation, emphasising his proactive visit to Manipur to manage the situation. The apex court’s prior order on August 7 had directed Padsalgikar to supervise both the CBI probe and related cases managed by state police. A special committee, led by Justice (retd) Gita Mittal and including Justices (retd) Shalini P Joshi and Asha Menon, was also formed to oversee the well-being and rehabilitation of violence victims.
Mehta presented a supplementary affidavit indicating that key issues were already under the committee’s consideration. The court will reconvene on September 25 to review the government’s status report and this affidavit.
Separately, in Imphal, tension persisted after curfew was instituted following protests against police stations. The unrest was sparked by the detention of five individuals found with advanced weaponry. While 30 people were injured in the turmoil, certain exemptions from the curfew were granted for essential service providers and travellers.
Manipur’s strife began in May, resulting from a controversial court ruling on ethnic community statuses. The unrest culminated in the death of over 160 individuals following altercations that started on May 3.