Supreme Court alarmed by deaths in Manipur relief camps, seeks accountability

The Supreme Court bench voiced alarm on Tuesday regarding deaths occurring within relief camps sheltering internally displaced persons (IDPs) across Manipur, directing the state's Chief Secretary to furnish a detailed response on the matter.

The court has mandated that the Manipur State Legal Services Authority expedite investigations into First Information Reports (FIRs) filed in connection with the deaths. The bench stressed that state authorities must prioritize both the physical safety and dignity of all individuals residing in the relief camps.

The direction comes amid ongoing concerns about conditions in temporary shelters housing thousands of people displaced by civil unrest in the northeastern state. The court's intervention underscores judicial scrutiny of state-level governance and humanitarian standards during displacement crises.

The Chief Secretary has been given a deadline to submit comprehensive information regarding the incidents, investigation progress, and measures being implemented to prevent further casualties. The state legal services authority will oversee compliance with the court's directives to safeguard vulnerable camp populations.