Supreme Court’s order
On Monday, the apex court directed the Central Bureau of Investigation and the trial court to guarantee the presence and formal examination of two crucial victim‑witnesses linked to the sexual‑assault allegations that emerged from the 2023 Manipur ethnic clashes. The justices also emphasized the need for a fast‑tracked trial timetable.
Bench composition and bail application
The judgment was delivered by a bench chaired by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana joining. While hearing the CBI’s plea to withdraw bail for two accused, the court ordered that the witnesses be produced on the already‑set dates and that their statements be recorded under oath.
Emphasis on witness protection
“The safety of witnesses must be assured above all,” the bench remarked.
The CBI warned that maintaining bail could expose the victims to intimidation, potentially silencing them. The court clarified that safeguarding witnesses is a statutory duty, and any decision on bail cancellation will be taken only after their testimonies are formally taken.
The trial court was instructed to implement the Supreme Court’s directives promptly, with all parties expected to cooperate fully.
Procedural setbacks
A recent hearing was deferred because of a public holiday, and counsel for the victims informed the bench that one of the two witnesses has been hospitalised with dengue, further complicating the schedule.
Context of the 2023 Manipur unrest
The matter forms part of the Supreme Court’s continuing oversight of crimes that erupted during the 2023 ethnic violence in Manipur, a conflict that claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands.
Future outlook
By mandating the swift recording of victim testimonies, the court seeks to keep the trial on track before revisiting the bail question for the accused.
