The Supreme Court of India has suggested the establishment of two dedicated trial courts to exclusively adjudicate cases investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and National Investigation Agency (NIA) stemming from the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana emphasized that trial proceedings in these matters must proceed without delay, voicing concern over whether existing designated courts are burdened with routine caseloads.

Key Proceedings and Directions

During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the Bench regarding the current status of the investigations:

  • Investigation Progress: The CBI has submitted final reports in 27 out of 31 cases assigned to it, while the NIA has filed chargesheets in 15 out of 30 cases.
  • Exclusive Trial Courts: The Apex Court requested authorities and the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court to set up two separate exclusive courts—one dedicated to CBI matters and the other for NIA prosecutions.
  • Access to Information: The Court directed that full case details and updates be compiled and shared with affected families and legal counsel to ensure transparency and access to justice.

The Court has called for a status report from the Registrar General of the Gauhati High Court ahead of the next hearing.