Sat Mar 22 12:48:02 UTC 2025: ## Supreme Court Judges Visit Manipur Relief Camps, Offer Legal Aid Amidst Ongoing Conflict
**Imphal, Manipur –** A delegation of Supreme Court judges, led by Justice B.R. Gavai, visited relief camps in Manipur’s Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts today, providing essential supplies and launching legal aid initiatives. The visit comes nearly two years after sectarian violence erupted in the state, displacing tens of thousands.
Justice Gavai, also the executive chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), virtually inaugurated legal and medical camps across all districts and opened new legal aid clinics in Imphal East, Imphal West, and Ukhrul. He was joined by Justices Vikram Nath, MM Sundresh, and KV Vishwanathan in Churachandpur. Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, a Meitei, did not participate in the Churachandpur visit due to objections from the district bar association, citing concerns about potential communal unrest.
The judges distributed essential relief materials to internally displaced people (IDPs) residing in the camps. The newly established legal services camps aim to connect IDPs with government welfare programs, including healthcare, pensions, employment schemes, and identity document restoration.
Justice Gavai emphasized the importance of unity and the role of the judiciary in resolving the conflict, stating that the Constitution is a unifying force and that the situation will eventually normalize. He expressed hope for a swift return to peace and urged all parties to work together towards that goal.
The visit underscores the ongoing need for legal and humanitarian assistance in Manipur. NALSA, in a statement, highlighted the continued displacement of over 50,000 people following the May 3, 2023 violence, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to ensuring access to legal rights and resources for all affected communities.
The conflict between the Meitei community and various Kuki tribes stems from a range of issues including land rights, political representation, and the Meitei community’s desire for Scheduled Tribe status. The Kukis, meanwhile, are seeking a separate administration. The Supreme Court’s intervention highlights the gravity of the situation and the ongoing efforts to address the humanitarian crisis and foster reconciliation in Manipur.
First Piper 