What’s the Extension of the Justice Gita Mittal-led Panel on Manipur Violence?
Synopsis
The Supreme Court has granted an extension to the committee led by Justice Gita Mittal until July 31, 2026, to continue its vital work on humanitarian issues stemming from the conflict in Manipur. This move underscores the court's commitment to addressing the plight of vulnerable populations during this crisis.
Key Takeaways
Supreme Court extends committee's tenure to July 31, 2026.
Committee addresses humanitarian issues, focusing on women and children .
Tasked with monitoring relief camp conditions and compensation for victims.
Regular updates are required every two weeks to the Supreme Court.
Judiciary's commitment to human rights and justice is reaffirmed.
New Delhi, Jan 28 (NationPress) The Supreme Court has, on Wednesday, extended the duration of a committee overseeing humanitarian issues until July 31, 2026. This committee was established to address concerns related to women and children amidst the sectarian turmoil in Manipur.
This committee, comprised of three esteemed women judges—former Chief Justice Gita Mittal of the J&K High Court, retired judge Shalini Phansalkar Joshi of the Bombay High Court, and former judge Asha Menon of the Delhi High Court—was assigned the crucial task of gathering data on violence against women in Manipur. Additionally, they will oversee relief camp conditions and determine compensation for affected individuals.
Moreover, the panel, led by Justice Mittal, is also responsible for facilitating compensation and restitution to the victims of violence.
On Wednesday, a Bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi sanctioned the extension after senior advocate Vibha Makhija, acting as amicus curiae, informed the court about the committee’s previous tenure, which had lapsed in July 2025.
The order from the CJI Kant-led Bench stated, “The Committee's continuation from July 2025 is now formalized. They are granted additional time until July 31, 2026.”
The Supreme Court has empowered the Justice Mittal-led panel to direct the state government to settle compensation for damages incurred to both movable and immovable properties belonging to those affected by the violence.
Furthermore, the committee is required to submit an updated status report directly to the Supreme Court every two weeks.
A previous Bench, chaired by then CJI D.Y. Chandrachud, had emphasized that establishing such a committee aimed to restore community trust in the justice system and ensure the rule of law is reinstated.
Expressing deep concern regarding the severe sexual violence faced by women during the sectarian conflict in Manipur, the Supreme Court remarked, “The infliction of sexual crimes and violence upon women is utterly intolerable and signifies a grave infringement of constitutional values such as dignity, personal liberty, and autonomy, which are safeguarded as fundamental rights under Part III of the Constitution.”
Point of View
The extension of the Justice Mittal-led committee reflects the judiciary's commitment to safeguarding human rights and upholding justice, particularly for the most vulnerable segments of society. It is imperative that the plight of women and children in conflict situations receives the attention it deserves, promoting a sense of accountability and support for victims.
NationPress
9 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Justice Mittal-led committee?
The committee is tasked with overseeing humanitarian concerns, particularly focusing on women and children affected by the violence in Manipur.
How long has the committee's tenure been extended?
The Supreme Court has extended the committee's tenure until July 31, 2026.
What are the main responsibilities of the committee?
The committee will gather information on violence against women, monitor conditions in relief camps, and decide on compensation for victims.
