Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has admitted to a dismal charge sheet rate in the state, revealing that only 2,332 cases out of 35,635 registered in the past five years have resulted in formal charges.
The shocking statistics have prompted the CM to announce the establishment of a cell to monitor and penalize Investigating Officers (IOs) who fail to meet deadlines.
The revelation came during a heated exchange in the Manipur assembly with opposition Congress MLA Kangujam Ranjit, who demanded strict action against IOs delaying FIR registration.
The CM acknowledged the issue, emphasizing the potential for criminals to secure bail if charge sheets aren’t filed within six months.
The situation in Manipur is particularly alarming in the context of the ongoing ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023. While over 11,892 cases have been registered related to the unrest, the CM admitted that the actual number of incidents is likely lower due to duplicate FIRs and Zero FIRs.
Critics have accused the state police of inefficiency and a lack of accountability. As the state grapples with the aftermath of the violence, the low charge sheet rate raises concerns about the administration of justice and the prospects of bringing perpetrators to book.