In Brief
The Supreme Court intervened in response to sectarian violence in Manipur from May 2023, which resulted in deaths, injuries, destruction of property, and widespread sexual violence against women. Challenging a High Court order on scheduled tribe inclusion, the Court appointed a three-judge committee to investigate violence against women, ensure victim rehabilitation, and provide compensation. It also appointed a retired police officer to supervise investigations and directed deployment of officers from outside Manipur to conduct impartial inquiries. The Court emphasized that medical examination of rape victims must occur within 24 hours and that speedy investigation is critical to preserve evidence and restore public confidence in the justice system.
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