Supreme Court Judges Visit Manipur Relief Camps, Pledge Legal Aid and Support for Displaced Survivors

(By Syed Ali Taher Abedi)

Chura Chandpur, Manipur – A Glimmer of Hope for Communities Affected by Violence and Displacement

In a powerful gesture of solidarity and support for the displaced survivors of the ongoing unrest in Manipur, a delegation of Supreme Court judges, led by Justice BR Gavai, along with Justice Vikram Nath and Justice MM Sundaresh, visited relief camps in Chura Chandpur and Imphal Valley on Saturday. The delegation was accompanied by Manipur High Court Chief Justice D. Krishna Kumar and Justice Golmei Gaiphulshuillu, in a mission to offer legal assistance and pledges of support for the victims of the violence that has devastated the region.

The visit, which aimed to address the urgent needs of the displaced communities, particularly the minorities and the Kuki people, came as a result of ongoing unrest that has plagued Manipur since May 2023. The violence, which has led to the destruction of homes and displacement of over 60,000 people, has also resulted in the loss of more than 200 lives. Many of these survivors are currently sheltered in 290 relief camps spread across the hills and valleys of the state.

While Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, a senior judge, could not join the delegation in Chura Chandpur due to opposition from a local legal group, he did join the Supreme Court judges in Bishnupur to extend his support.

The judicial visit provided much-needed hope and encouragement to those living in the camps. In his address, Justice Gavai emphasized the importance of moving forward from the past and focusing on building a brighter future. “We should not live in the past pain or tragedy,” he remarked. “We must look forward to a future where we can all live together. It may take time, but we must remain hopeful and positive.”

The conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities has disrupted life in Manipur, and the displaced families have been seeking not only shelter but also the restoration of their homes and lands that were lost in the violence. Hundreds of these displaced people approached the judges during their visit, pleading for assistance in reclaiming their properties.

Justice Gavai underscored the significance of accessible justice and the right to a dignified life. “The principles of accessibility to justice, healthcare, and opportunities for individuals to lead dignified lives are paramount,” he stated, reflecting on the importance of addressing the survivors’ needs. These words resonated strongly with the victims who had gathered in the camps, as the judges reiterated their commitment to offering legal aid and other necessary support.

The delegation’s visit also included the inauguration of 265 legal aid clinics within the displaced communities, ensuring that victims would have access to free legal assistance. In addition, medical services were announced for 109 relief camps across the state to cater to the pressing healthcare needs of the displaced families.

Justice Gavai highlighted the moral and constitutional duty to ensure that those affected by the violence are not forgotten. “It is our duty to make sure they are not left behind,” he said, expressing particular concern for the plight of women and children who have borne the brunt of the conflict.

During their visit, the 400 residents of one relief camp warmly greeted the judges with smiles and heartfelt performances. Some camp residents sang “We Shall Overcome” and “Hum Honge Kamyab,” while children and women gathered in their modest shelters, showing resilience and hope despite their challenging circumstances.

One group of about 200 displaced people from Krishnappa presented a memorandum to the judges, urging for the return of land with security. These villages, they explained, have historically belonged to their community but have faced encroachment and loss of ownership. The plea for restoration and justice was a key point of discussion during the meeting.

The visit by the Supreme Court delegation to Manipur marks a pivotal moment in the state’s ongoing efforts to address the crisis caused by the violence and displacement. The legal aid clinics, along with the medical services being provided, offer a lifeline to those struggling to rebuild their lives amidst the devastation.

As the judges left the camps, their message was clear: while the road to recovery will take time, the commitment to ensuring justice, dignity, and support for the displaced people of Manipur is unwavering.