The Manipur state government issued an appeal to its citizens on Tuesday, imploring them not to encroach upon properties belonging to individuals displaced by the recent violence in the region. This directive was prompted by a Supreme Court ruling dated September 25, which underscored the importance of safeguarding the possessions of displaced individuals, as well as those that may have suffered damage or destruction during the period of unrest, and preventing any unauthorized occupation thereof.
The Governor's order emphasized the gravity of the situation, as any such incidents of property encroachment could potentially exacerbate the prevailing law and order issues in the state. In response to this, Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police have been advised to take immediate action to enforce and implement the directives laid out in the Supreme Court's ruling.
Furthermore, the Governor's order made it explicitly clear that any individuals found engaging in the seizure or damage of other people's properties would be subject to legal repercussions. Such actions would entail individuals being prosecuted under the relevant provisions of the current legal framework and being held accountable for contempt of the Supreme Court of India.
The Supreme Court's earlier ruling on September 25 specifically instructed the Manipur government to ensure the protection of religious building sites from encroachment and the safeguarding of these structures against any damage or destruction. In cases where encroachments had already occurred, the ruling mandated that encroachers must promptly remove their unauthorized occupations. Failure to adhere to these directives would result in contempt of court charges being filed against those in violation of the Supreme Court's orders.
Â
