Manipur Violence Probe Panel Gets 7th Extension

This is the seventh extension granted to the three-member commission, constituted on June 4, 2023, following the outbreak of ethnic violence in the northeastern state.

The panel, initially headed by former Gauhati High Court chief justice Ajai Lamba, is now chaired by former Supreme Court judge Balbir Singh Chauhan. Justice Lamba resigned with effect from February 28, and Justice Chauhan assumed charge on March 1.

According to a gazette notification, the commission shall submit its report to the Centre “as soon as possible but not later than the 20 May, 2027.”

The panel is investigating the sequence of events and circumstances surrounding the violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, following a “Tribal Solidarity March” organised in the hill districts to protest the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.

The clashes, which claimed more than 260 lives, were preceded by tensions over the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land and a series of protests.

The Centre constituted the commission on the recommendation of the Manipur government, citing the need for an inquiry into a matter of public importance.

The commission’s mandate includes examining possible lapses or dereliction of duty by authorities and individuals responsible for maintaining law and order.

It is also assessing the adequacy of administrative measures taken to prevent and control the violence and examining complaints and allegations submitted by individuals and organisations.

The ethnic clashes resulted in widespread arson, destruction of houses and property, injuries and large-scale displacement of residents.

The Union home ministry had previously extended the commission’s tenure until May 20.