The bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana heard a batch of petitions that raise questions over the investigation of the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence, after a report by ex‑Jammu and Kashmir Chief Justice Gita Mittal highlighted 34 deaths in relief camps.
The order demands the Manipur Chief Secretary file an affidavit detailing 34 deaths, 20 of which were deemed unnatural, and the post‑mortem coverage that covered only 20 of the 34 cases. The bench expressed concern that the state has not responded to the committee’s findings.
The court also interrogated the state over the modest compensation of ₹20,000–₹30,000 paid to internally displaced persons who died in the camps, questioning why a higher amount was not offered. The bench asked the state to explain the disparity and to ensure dignity for the victims.
In addition, the Supreme Court directed the Meghalaya State Legislative Assembly (MSLSA) to expedite FIR investigations and urged the state to safeguard the safety of IDPs in camps. The bench also reminded the state that two special trial courts have been set up to hear CBI and NIA cases from the 2023 violence.
Manipur’s state government officials, including the Chief Secretary, responded that they are working on a comprehensive report and will submit it by the end of the month. The CBI’s Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati said 31 cases have been investigated with 28 final reports filed, while three remain under investigation.
The Supreme Court is set to review the affidavit on Friday, and a hearing on the compensation issue is scheduled for next week. The court’s directive signals a push for greater accountability in the wake of the violence that killed more than 200 people and displaced thousands.