Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: The Supreme Court ordered the CBI on October 5 to secure the testimony of two key victim-witnesses in a Manipur sexual violence case. A bench led by Justice Surya Kant alongside Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana demanded the trial move forward immediately. The witnesses must appear in court on October 7, 9, and 28 to record their statements.
Additional Solicitor General D P Singh represented the CBI, arguing that bail for the accused threatens witness safety and testimony. He told the court, "In cases of this nature, if the accused are out, nobody will depose." The victims faced brutal sexual assault and public shaming during the 2023 ethnic unrest.
Defense lawyer Shadan Farasat claimed the CBI is moving too slowly. He noted the case involves roughly 30 witnesses and remains in the second stage of proceedings. Nizam Pasha, representing the complainant, explained that a previous court date fell on a public holiday and one victim suffered from dengue. The bench ruled that authorities bear the duty of witness protection. They warned they may revoke bail if the accused interfere.
The court will revisit the bail challenge after the testimonies conclude. This case stems from the broader violence starting May 3, 2023, following a tribal march. The court is now pushing for special trial courts in Manipur and Assam to handle cases linked to the conflict. Officials must ensure full cooperation to keep the legal process on track.
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