SC takes cognizance of Manipur’s sexual assault: CJI remarks “give a little time for government to take action”
Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud remarked, “We will give a little time for government to take action otherwise we will step in,” reacting to the horrific video showing two women from the Kuki-Zomi community in Manipur being paraded naked and subjected to sexual assault by a mob of men surfaced and caught the nation’s attention. The incident took place more than two months ago in Kangpokpi district amidst the ethnic conflict in the state of Manipur. Today, the Supreme Court (SC) of India took suo motu cognizance in the matter and asked the Centre and State Governments to take action and inform steps taken by them to bring the offenders into law. The main accused in the incident was arrested this morning from Thoubal district. The name of the key accused is ‘Heradas’ and he is 32 years old. While initiating the Court proceedings today, the Chief Justice of India sought presence of Attorney General for India Mr. R Venkataramani, and Solicitor General of India Mr. Tushar Mehta in the Court.
When the Court assembled, CJI said, “We are very deeply disturbed by the videos which have emerged yesterday about the two women who were paraded in Manipur. We are expressing our deep concern. It is time that the government really steps in and takes action. This is simply unacceptable.” He added, “Using women as instrument in an area of communal strife to inflict gender violence is deeply deeply disturbing. This is the grossest of human rights violations.” Considering the current situation, CJI asked the Government regarding the actions taken by them to ensure that such instances are not repeated. He said, “Who knows whether it was isolated or if there is a pattern.” About the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “The incident that has come to light in Manipur is a shameful incident for any civilized society… I am filled with anguish and anger. The incident of Manipur brings shame to society… What has happened to the daughters of Manipur can never be forgiven, the guilty will not be spared.”
As the video surfaced, various political leaders, Parliament members, and others expressed their disappointment and anger on Twitter. Manipur CM N Biren Singh tweeted, “My hearts go out to the women who were subjected to deeply disrespectful and inhumane act, as shown in the distressing video that surfaced yesterday. After taking a Suo-moto cognizance of the incident immediately after the video surfaced, the Manipur Police swung to action and made the first arrest this morning. A thorough investigation is currently underway and we will ensure strict action is taken against all perpetrators, including considering the possibility of capital punishment. Let it be known, there is absolutely no place for such heinous acts in our society.” Smriti Irani, a member of the Lok Sabha, tweeted, “The horrific video of sexual assault of 2 women emanating from Manipur is condemnable and downright inhuman. Spoke to CM N Biren Singh ji who has informed me that investigation is currently underway and assured that no effort will be spared to bring perpetrators to justice.”
Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi also tweeted regarding the matter, “PM’s silence and inaction has led Manipur into anarchy. INDIA will not stay silent while the idea of India is being attacked in Manipur. We stand with the people of Manipur. Peace is the only way forward.” Considering the current situation, the government is likely to take action against Twitter over the circulation of videos of such inhuman behavior that ‘could lead to problems in law and order’ and are not permitted under law. An order was issued regarding the same and mentioned that the IT ministry is working to ensure that the video should not be circulated. While hearing the matter today in the Supreme Court, CJI listed the matter for the next hearing on July 28, 2023
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