Supreme Court Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Manipur Sexual Assault, CJI Chandrachud Summons Top Law Officers
In a significant move, the Supreme Court of India has taken suo motu cognizance of a disturbing viral video showing a woman being sexually assaulted in strife-ridden Manipur. The Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud expressed deep concern over the visuals and summoned the Attorney General and Solicitor General, the topmost law officers of the government, to address the matter urgently. The court termed the incident “simply unacceptable” and emphasized the need for immediate action against the perpetrators.
The video, which surfaced on social media, showed a woman being paraded naked and subjected to sexual assault in Manipur’s hills on May 4. The court, visibly disturbed by the visuals, considered it a gross violation of human rights and a severe infraction of constitutional principles in a democratic society. CJI Chandrachud asserted that using women as instruments of violence in a charged atmosphere is against the principles of constitutional democracy and demanded swift action to bring the culprits to book.
The Supreme Court clarified that its intervention in Manipur’s violence has been limited to humanitarian issues and facilitating the restoration of peace. However, the gravity of the sexual assault case compelled the court to step in and ensure justice prevails. The court directed the Centre and Manipur government to update them on the actions taken to hold the perpetrators accountable by July 28.
Following the court’s intervention, experts and the National Commission for Women (NCW) chief praised the judiciary’s response and demanded strict punishment for the culprits involved in the heinous act. Rekha Sharma, NCW chief, assured that more accused would be arrested soon, and the commission had taken cognizance of the incident. The court’s proactive stance in addressing gender-based violence has been seen as a positive step toward ensuring justice for victims.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi denounced the act and emphasized his worry for women’s safety following the upsetting incident. He emphasized that such atrocities can never be forgiven and urged all state chiefs to tighten law and order to safeguard women’s honor. The Home Minister, Amit Shah, also spoke with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh to enquire about the incident and directed the police to take strict action against the culprits. He assured that the government would consider severe punishment, including capital punishment, for those responsible.
Tensions have escalated in Manipur’s hills after the video came to light, raising concerns about the safety and security of women in the region. The Supreme Court’s intervention has brought hope to the victims and their families, who seek justice and an end to such horrific incidents. The court’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and human rights violations is being lauded by experts, signaling a push towards a more equitable and just society.
While the investigation into the Manipur sexual assault case is ongoing, the nation’s eyes are now on the government and the judiciary to ensure that the perpetrators face the full force of the law. The Supreme Court’s suo motu cognizance and urgent response have set a precedent for swift action and accountability in cases of violence against women, with the hope that justice will be served to the victims and their families. The court’s dedication to upholding the constitutional principles of equality and dignity for all citizens, especially women, highlights its commitment to a more inclusive and safer society for all.
