New Delhi, Dec 10 (Representative) The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Manipur Government to provide a detailed, sealed-cover report listing properties that have been burnt, looted, or encroached upon amidst the ongoing ethnic violence in the state. The bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, was hearing the matter related to the Manipur ethnic violence. The Bench while hearing the plight of displaced persons, emphasised the need for accountability and remedial measures to address the damage caused during the conflict. Senior Advocate Vibha Makhija, representing the Justice Gita Mittal Committee, informed the bench that the committee had prepared over 34 reports detailing humanitarian and rehabilitation efforts undertaken since the violence erupted. She noted that the committee’s work, conducted entirely pro bono, included providing shelter, rebuilding skills, and helping displaced persons reclaim their properties. Commending the committee’s work, the court directed its reports to be shared with the Union Home Ministry and the Manipur Government to enable appropriate action. The bench directed the Manipur Government to submit various details in a sealed report on the properties that were fully or partially burnt, or looted or encroached upon.
The report must include the names and addresses of the property owners and the current occupants, if any, the bench directed. Additionally, the court directed the state to outline steps taken against trespassers as per the law. The court also took note of concerns raised by the Justice Mittal Committee regarding the release of funds for temporary and permanent housing. The CJI urged the state government to expedite decisions on criminal actions and compensation, including mesne profits for unauthorized occupation of properties. Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Manipur government, acknowledged the concerns and assured the bench that the law-and-order situation and recovery of arms remained the government’s top priorities. However, expressing reluctance to share sensitive data in open court, the SG stated, “We have the data, but frequent public disclosures might complicate matters. I request that such details be handled cautiously.” The bench declined to entertain an intervention application filed by a Delhi resident claiming to represent the interests of displaced persons in Manipur. The SG argued that the applicant lacked locus standi in the matter. Asserting the judiciary’s awareness of the gravity of the crisis, CJI Khanna remarked, “We understand the situation and are addressing it. Unnecessary rhetoric does not aid the process.” The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for January 20, 2025.