Imphal: The Supreme Court on Monday directed the CBI and a trial court to ensure the appearance and examination of two key victim-witnesses in a 2023 Manipur ethnic violence sexual assault case.
A bench of Justices Surya Kant, Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana passed the order while hearing CBI pleas challenging the bail granted to two accused. The bench directed the agency to ensure the witnesses appear on October 7, 9 and 28.
The bench said the trial should proceed without delay and that the bail pleas of the accused would be considered after the two key depositions are completed.
During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General D.P. Singh, appearing for the CBI, argued that the accused being out on interim bail could discourage the victims from testifying, given the nature of the offences.
Senior advocate Shadan Farasat, appearing for one of the accused, argued that the CBI was delaying the trial. He said the case involves around 30 witnesses and is still at its second stage.
Advocate Nizam Pasha, appearing for the victim-complainant, explained the earlier absence of the witnesses. He said the previous hearing fell on a public holiday, when the deposition centres were closed. He also said one of the victims was recovering from dengue.
The bench said victims could not be expected to appear on public holidays but directed them to remain present on the upcoming dates.
The Supreme Court also said witness protection is the responsibility of the authorities. It warned that the bail granted to the accused could be revoked if there is any misuse of the concession and directed all parties to cooperate with the trial so that it can proceed quickly.