The Centre’s repeated extension of the Commission of Inquiry into the Manipur violence has raised concerns over the pace of justice. Victims and survivors continue to wait for accountability and healing.
By PC Bureau
The Centre’s decision to extend the deadline for the Commission of Inquiry probing the Manipur violence until May 2025 has raised serious concerns about the pace of justice and accountability. This extended timeline, coupled with the initial delay in setting up the commission, has further exacerbated the suffering of the victims and their families.
The Centre’s marks a significant delay in concluding the investigation into the ethnic violence that erupted in the state on May 3, 2023, claiming at least 258 lives and displacing thousands.
The Commission, headed by former Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court Ajai Lamba, was constituted on June 4, 2023, with retired IAS officer Himanshu Shekhar Das and retired IPS officer Aloka Prabhakar as its members. It was tasked with investigating the causes, spread, and administrative lapses surrounding the violence. Initially, the panel was expected to submit its findings within six months of its first sitting.
However, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has now extended the deadline multiple times, the most recent being a significant extension to May 2025. The earlier deadline was set for November 20, 2024, indicating a continued lack of urgency in addressing the matter.
The repeated extensions have drawn criticism over the government’s commitment to resolving the crisis. Despite the significant loss of life and property, the probe’s slow progress reflects a lack of prioritization for justice and rehabilitation. Critics have questioned whether the extensions are a sign of inefficiency or a deliberate stalling tactic to avoid accountability.
According to the terms of reference, the commission was tasked to:
- Investigate the sequence of events leading to the violence.
- Identify lapses or dereliction of duty by authorities.
- Evaluate the adequacy of administrative measures taken to prevent the violence.
- Address complaints or allegations raised by individuals or associations.
While the ethnic clashes began over the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, the violence has since spiraled into a broader humanitarian and political crisis, leaving large swathes of the population displaced and fearful.
The continued delays undermine the credibility of the government’s response to one of the most significant communal crises in recent history. Activists and observers argue that the extensions only prolong the uncertainty for the victims, delaying justice and impeding rehabilitation efforts.
The commission’s failure to adhere to its original deadline has raised questions about whether the central and state governments are genuinely committed to resolving the crisis or simply managing public perception.
Key Issues and Concerns:
- Delayed Justice: The prolonged investigation process has caused immense pain and frustration for the victims and their families. The delay in delivering justice hinders the healing process and perpetuates a sense of injustice.
- Lack of Urgency: The Centre’s apparent lack of urgency in addressing the crisis is evident in the repeated extensions granted to the commission. This raises questions about the government’s commitment to resolving the issue.
- Impact on Public Confidence: The slow pace of the investigation erodes public trust in the judicial system and the government’s ability to deliver justice. It can also fuel further unrest and instability in the region.
- Potential for Impunity: The extended timeline could potentially allow perpetrators to evade justice and continue their harmful activities.
The Need for Swift Action
To restore peace and harmony in Manipur, it is imperative that the Commission of Inquiry expedites its investigation and submits its report within a reasonable timeframe. The government must take decisive action to hold the perpetrators accountable and provide relief to the victims.
Key steps to expedite the process include:
- Adequate Resources: Ensuring the commission has sufficient resources, including personnel and funding, to conduct a thorough and timely investigation.
- Expert Assistance: Enlisting the help of experts in forensic science, legal analysis, and human rights to expedite the investigation.
- Transparent Communication: Regularly updating the public on the progress of the investigation to maintain transparency and accountability.
- Effective Coordination: Coordinating with state and local authorities to ensure smooth and efficient investigation.
