The Supreme Court on Friday said it is considering the establishment of dedicated trial courts to conduct day-to-day hearings in criminal cases arising from the 2023 ethnic violence in Manipur, while directing investigating agencies to expedite pending probes.

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohan directed the Manipur government to extend full cooperation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Special Investigation Teams (SITs), noting that both agencies have reported facing significant challenges in carrying forward investigations.

The court observed that it was “tentatively” proposing to set up special courts, in consultation with the governments and the High Courts of Manipur and Gauhati, to ensure speedy day-to-day trials.

During the hearing, the bench was informed that SITs are investigating 3,020 cases related to the ethnic violence across eight districts of Manipur. Charge sheets have been filed in 301 cases, charges framed in 41 cases, while trial has commenced in only 10 cases. The prosecution is expected to examine 2,924 witnesses.

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The CBI informed the court that it has filed charge sheets in 21 of the 31 cases transferred to it. Supplementary investigations are continuing in 11 cases, closure reports have been filed in six cases—three of which have already been accepted by the competent court—while four cases remain under investigation.

The agency cited the fragile law and order situation, displacement of witnesses, prolonged internet shutdowns and movement restrictions as major hurdles affecting the pace of investigations and the collection of evidence.

Acknowledging these difficulties, the Supreme Court said the investigations could not remain open-ended and must be completed within a reasonable timeframe.

The bench directed the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, Manipur, to provide all necessary logistical and administrative support to the CBI and SITs. It also sought a fresh status report on the progress of investigations and asked authorities to compile details of all FIRs in which investigations are pending or charge sheets have been filed.

The court also considered an application filed by the International Meitei Organisation seeking a CBI probe into the disappearance of around 30 persons. It directed the applicants to approach the Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court, who may consider assigning the matter to an SIT or any other appropriate forum. (with ANI inputs)