SC Judges Visit Manipur, Assure Relief Camp Inmates of Justice & Hope
A five-member Supreme Court delegation, led by Justice BR Gavai, visited Manipur to meet those displaced by ethnic violence. They encouraged relief camp inmates to remain hopeful for a better future. Speaking in Churachandpur, Justice Gavai emphasized the Constitution’s role in ensuring justice and unity. He reassured the affected people that coordinated efforts from the judiciary, legislature, and executive would help restore normalcy. The judges acknowledged the struggles of internally displaced persons and stressed the judiciary’s commitment to their well-being.
Legal aid clinics have been set up to provide free legal assistance. Justice Gavai urged people to trust the Constitution and use these services. The delegation also visited relief camps in Bishnupur and interacted with displaced families. Justice N Kotiswar Singh, a Manipur native, expressed hope that the visit would provide a healing touch. The initiative aims to empower affected communities. The visit reaffirmed the judiciary’s support for those in distress.
SC Judges Visit Manipur, Assure Relief Camp Inmates of Justice & Hope
In a heartfelt effort to support communities affected by prolonged ethnic clashes, five Supreme Court judges visited Manipur on Saturday. Their mission was to connect with families displaced by violence and inspire hope for recovery. The delegation, led by Justice BR Gavai, included Justices Vikram Nath, MM Sundresh, KV Viswanathan, and N Kotiswar Singh. Their visit marked a significant step toward addressing the hardships faced by individuals now living in relief camps across the state.
A Message of Unity and Justice
During their visit, the judges inaugurated legal aid clinics, a legal services camp, and a health camp in Churachandpur, one of the regions most affected by the crisis. Speaking at the event, Justice Gavai reassured the public that the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to justice—social, economic, and political. “No one should feel excluded from these rights,” he emphasized. “The Constitution is our strength, uniting us as a nation even in difficult times.”
Justice Gavai acknowledged the pain of those who had lost their homes, livelihoods, and loved ones but urged them to focus on rebuilding. “While we cannot change the past, we can shape a better future. Challenges remain, but through collective effort, we will overcome them,” he said. He stressed the importance of collaboration between the judiciary, government, and lawmakers to restore normalcy and ensure justice for all.
Trust in the Constitution
Reiterating his faith in India’s democratic framework, Justice Gavai encouraged people to rely on the principles of the Constitution. “Our Constitution has guided us through decades of diversity and challenges. It will continue to protect your rights and dignity,” he stated. He also acknowledged the daily struggles of displaced families, many of whom have been living in relief camps for months. “The judiciary stands with you. We are committed to ensuring your voices are heard and your needs addressed,” he assured.
To empower affected communities, newly established legal aid clinics will provide free assistance with property disputes, documentation issues, and other legal challenges arising from displacement. Justice Gavai urged people to utilize these services, emphasizing, “Legal aid is not a privilege—it is your right. These clinics exist to help you rebuild your lives.”
Comfort in Shared Heritage
The judges later traveled to Bishnupur, another district housing relief camps, where they listened to families’ stories of loss and resilience. Justice N Kotiswar Singh, a native of Manipur, spoke passionately about his connection to the region. “As someone who understands Manipur’s culture and pain, I believe this visit will bring solace. We recognize your strength, and we will ensure it is not overlooked,” he said. His words resonated deeply with locals, many of whom expressed gratitude for the judges’ empathy.
A Ray of Hope
The Supreme Court’s visit has been widely welcomed as a beacon of hope. For months, relief camp residents have faced uncertainty, struggling with overcrowding, scarce resources, and trauma. The judges’ presence—and their promise of institutional support—has reignited optimism. “They did not just offer sympathy; they provided solutions,” said a camp resident in Churachandpur. “Knowing the highest court is watching over us gives us a sense of security.”
Legal experts have praised the initiative to establish on-ground legal aid, calling it a crucial step for marginalized groups who often lack resources to navigate complex legal systems. The health camps, offering free medical check-ups and mental health support, address another urgent need in these communities.
Looking Ahead
While the road to recovery remains long, the judges’ visit underscores a national commitment to healing Manipur. Justice Gavai’s emphasis on unity and justice serves as a reminder that the Constitution’s ideals can guide even the darkest moments. For displaced families, the message is clear: they have not been forgotten.
As Manipur strives to rebuild, the combined efforts of the judiciary, government, and civil society will be essential. The Supreme Court’s intervention highlights the power of empathy and accountability in fostering peace. For now, the legal aid clinics and health camps stand as tangible symbols of progress, providing displaced communities with the tools to reclaim their rights and their futures.
In the words of Justice Singh, “Hope is the foundation of resilience. Together, we will move forward.”