NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has issued a directive to Manipur, instructing the restoration of internet services to facilitate the proceedings of CBI cases. The Court acknowledged that there have been victims both in the valleys and hills of Manipur and emphasized that the focus should not be on comparing their suffering but on ensuring justice for all. It urged the Manipur government to establish reliable internet connectivity, enabling online hearings for CBI cases at the Gauhati court.
Nonetheless, in situations where victims, witnesses, or the accused are unable to participate online, they retain the option to appear physically before the designated court. The Supreme Court's order stipulates that all applications related to accused production, remand, judicial custody, custody extension, and other proceedings can be conducted online, taking into consideration the geographical distance and security concerns in Manipur's courts.
Video conferencing will be employed for test identification parades, overseen by a magistrate based in Manipur. Applications for search and arrest warrants will also be processed through online channels by the investigating officer, according to the court's instructions.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court noted that Solicitor General Tushar Mehta has assured the provision of adequate internet facilities for activities such as video conferencing from Manipur. The Court clarified that its directives do not prevent individuals who prefer in-person appearances in Guwahati.
Given the present circumstances and the need to uphold a fair criminal justice process in Manipur, the apex court has called upon the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court to nominate one or more judicial officers for this purpose.
Additionally, while mandating that trials for cases transferred to the CBI will be held in Guwahati, the Court directed the Chief Justice of the Guwahati High Court to appoint judges proficient in one or more languages spoken in Manipur.
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