Supreme Court Orders Probe Into Manipur Relief Camp Deaths

The Supreme Court of India expressed shock and serious displeasure over reports of 25 unnatural deaths among internally displaced persons in relief camps in Manipur. A three-judge bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant directed the Manipur Chief Secretary to submit a detailed report and affidavit identifying the causes of these deaths and the status of post-mortem examinations.

The court questioned why autopsies were conducted in only 20 of the 25 cases and demanded an explanation for why compensation for the deceased was limited to between ₹20,000 and ₹30,000. These directions follow findings from a committee headed by former High Court Chief Justice Gita Mittal. The court further ordered the Manipur State Legal Services Authority to ensure that FIRs are registered and investigated expeditiously for all suspicious deaths to protect the safety and dignity of camp residents.

Regarding the broader ethnic violence that began in May 2023, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the court that 42 Special Investigation Teams have been formed across eight districts. While 302 charge sheets have been filed, 1,135 cases remain under investigation. The court urged the expedited conclusion of trials in special courts, including cases investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation and the National Investigation Agency.