Maintaining Restraint: Kuki and Metei Representatives Urged to Avoid Exploiting Supreme Court for Heightening Manipur Conflict

The Supreme Court has emphasized that it cannot take over the responsibility of maintaining law and order or the security apparatus to resolve the ethnic strife and violence in Manipur. During a hearing, the court urged counsels representing the Kuki and Meitei groups to refrain from using the court proceedings as a platform for escalating violence and problems in the state. The bench clarified that the duty of ensuring security lies with the Union of India and the Manipur government. It stressed that the Supreme Court's jurisdiction is limited and it can issue directions to the authorities to enhance security based on positive suggestions provided by various parties involved.

The court is currently hearing multiple petitions filed by NGOs and individuals seeking various measures, including Army protection for the Kuki tribe and challenging the high court's order on designating the Meitei community as a Scheduled Tribe. The Manipur High Court Bar Association and other entities have also made submissions. The bench asked the parties to review the updated status report filed by the chief secretary of Manipur and present positive suggestions for ending the violence.

The court firmly stated that it will not entertain arguments aimed at escalating tensions, emphasizing that it understands the concerns but must adhere to established procedures. The Solicitor General, representing the state government, stated that an updated status report had been filed and efforts were being made by the Centre and the state government to restore normalcy. The bench directed the solicitor general to consider the suggestions put forward by the high court bar association, particularly regarding the removal of blockades on essential supply routes.

The Supreme Court had previously directed the state government to submit an updated status report detailing steps taken for rehabilitation, improving law and order, and recovering firearms looted from state armouries. The ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur erupted in early May, following a protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. The state's population comprises Meiteis, who form the majority, residing mainly in the Imphal Valley, while Nagas and Kukis, constituting 40% of the population, reside in the hill districts.

The Supreme Court continues to stress its role in ensuring that the political executive takes appropriate action and does not disregard the situation. However, it has made it clear that it cannot intervene beyond its limited jurisdiction and urges parties to provide constructive suggestions for resolving the conflict.