Supreme Court’s directive
The apex court on Monday instructed the Central Bureau of Investigation and the trial court to ensure the presence and testimony of two vital victim‑witnesses in a sexual‑assault case arising from the 2023 Manipur ethnic riots. The justices also stressed that the trial must proceed without unnecessary delays.
Bench composition and bail petition
The order was delivered by a bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana joining. While hearing the CBI’s plea to withdraw bail for two accused, the court mandated that the witnesses be produced on the already‑fixed dates and that their statements be formally recorded.
Emphasis on witness protection
“The safety of witnesses is non‑negotiable,” the bench remarked.
The CBI warned that keeping the accused on bail could create an atmosphere of intimidation, potentially silencing the victims. The court clarified that protecting witnesses is a duty of the state, and any decision on bail cancellation will be taken only after the testimonies are secured.
The trial court was instructed to implement the Supreme Court’s orders promptly, and all parties were urged to cooperate fully.
Procedural setbacks
A recent hearing was adjourned due to a public holiday, and counsel for the victims informed the bench that one of the two witnesses has been hospitalized with dengue, further complicating the schedule.
Context of the 2023 Manipur unrest
This matter is part of the Supreme Court’s broader oversight of crimes that erupted during the 2023 ethnic violence in Manipur, a conflict that claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands.
Future outlook
By ordering the swift recording of the victims’ statements, the court aims to keep the trial on track before revisiting the bail issue for the accused.
