SC refuses to issue directions to Army, Paramilitary forces deployed in Manipur

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to pass directions to the Army and paramilitary forces to provide increased security in Manipur's «particular tribal areas». Observing the «greatest hallmark of a democracy is civilian control over the Army», SC said it «cannot breach that». A bench headed by CJI DY Chandrachud orally remarked that the top court has till date never issued directions to the Indian Army on how to conduct military, security or rescue operations.

The apex court reiterated that the issue of maintenance of law and order, and security of the state fell within the domain of the elected government. The bench added that it would be «not appropriate» for the court to exercise its powers to issue any directions to the army and paramilitary forces. The observation was made in response to a demand made by the petitioners seeking directions to the Army and paramilitary forces to provide security in certain violence-gripped areas of Manipur.

However, the bench impressed upon the state to ensure that there is protection of life and liberty of people in the state. The court also directed the Manipur government to act upon certain suggestions made by petitioners to mitigate the situation. On Monday, the SC had sought constructive suggestions from petitioners which could be used to assist the state authorities in handling the situation.

A list of issues were raised in the suggestions which included shortage of medicines, paucity of doctors, resumption of cellular services, etc. Observing that it is a «humanitarian issue», the SC on Monday had cautioned that the proceedings pertaining to the violence in Manipur should not be used as a platform to escalate tensions. Solicitor general Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Manipur