A delegation of six Supreme Court judges, led by Justice BR Gavai, will visit relief camps in violence-affected Manipur on March 22 to strengthen legal and humanitarian support for the displaced communities.
The delegation comprises Justices BR Gavai, Surya Kant, Vikram Nath, MM Sundresh, KV Viswanathan, and N Kotishwar, all of whom will engage with internally displaced persons (IDPs) and oversee various relief initiatives.
Justice Gavai, who serves as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), will virtually inaugurate legal services camps and medical camps across all districts of Manipur, along with new legal aid clinics in Imphal East, Imphal West, and Ukhrul districts.
The visit will include the distribution of essential relief materials to IDPs. Additionally, the legal services camps will facilitate access to government welfare programs, ensuring displaced individuals can benefit from, healthcare services, pensions, employment schemes, identity document reconstruction.
“Each participating state department will outline at least five key schemes tailored to address the needs of the displaced population. A team of 25 specialized doctors from Chennai will conduct medical camps across all relief camps. Their services will continue for six additional days, ensuring sustained medical support, treatment, and access to essential medicines for displaced families,” NALSA stated.
NALSA, in collaboration with the Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA), has played a critical role in offering legal aid and support to affected communities. So far, 273 special legal aid clinics have been established at relief camps, assisting IDPs with accessing government benefits, retrieving lost documents, and receiving medical aid.
“This visit underscores NALSA’s steadfast commitment to justice, especially for marginalized and vulnerable communities. By bridging the gap between legal rights and accessibility, NALSA aims to ensure that every displaced person receives the support, protection, and resources they need to rebuild their lives with dignity,” the organization stated.
The Supreme Court delegation will visit relief camps in Manipur on March 22, coinciding with the Duo Decennial Celebration of the High Court of Manipur.
Violence erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023, following a rally organized by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM). The conflict primarily involved Hindu Meiteis and tribal Kukis, who are Christians. The unrest escalated across the state, prompting the Central government to deploy paramilitary forces to restore order.
(Inputs from ANI)
