The Supreme Court on Monday questioned the Manipur government and the Centre over the delay in registering a first information report (FIR) in the case of the sexual assault of two women in the state.
The court was hearing a petition filed by the two women, who alleged that they were assaulted by a group of men on May 4 in Kangpokpi district. The FIR was not registered until May 18.
Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud asked the government and the police what they were doing for 14 days before registering the FIR. He also asked why a special investigation team (SIT) had not been formed to investigate the case.
The court directed the government to form a SIT headed by a woman judge. The SIT will also include a representative from the National Commission for Women.
The court also ordered the government to provide the two women with security and medical assistance.
The case has sparked outrage in Manipur and across the country. It has also raised questions about the safety of women in the state.
The Supreme Court's intervention is a welcome step, and it is hoped that the SIT will conduct a thorough investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice.
In other developments:
- The court also directed the government to submit a report on the steps taken to prevent sexual violence against women in the state.
- The court has asked the Centre to provide financial assistance to the two women.
- The court has also asked the government to ensure that the two women are able to appear before the SIT.
The case is likely to be heard again in the coming weeks.
