Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 18, 2009:
Based on a complaint petition filed in connection with the controversial killing of L Satish, Imphal Bench of the Gauhati High Court has served show cause notices to the respondents.
Prior to decreeing on the case yesterday, the Division bench entertained counsels of both the petitioner and the respondents in putting forth their respective points of argument.
The court also set a deadline of four months to the respondents that include the Government of Manipur's Chief Secretary, Commissioner (Home), DGP, SP (Thoubal), SP (Imphal East), OC (Lamlai PS), OC Heingang, and Union Government's representatives including the IGAR (S) and CO of 23 AR.
Through advocate Khaidem Mani, Loitongbam Mani (75), who is father of the late Satish of Singjamei Oinam Thingel had filed the complaint petition before the Court.
Alleging fake encounter killing of L Satish by a combined team of Thoubal police commandos and troops of 23 AR, the petition sought stringent action against those personnel involved in the killing, to order institution of judicial inquiry (if needed) and extend financial relief (ex-gratia) of Rs 98,40,000 amount to the family of the deceased.
The father had complaint that his son along with one Pebam Gunindro were apprehended by unidentified gunmen from near Sajiwa jail on May 16, 2009 and also lodged a complaint at the Heingang police station the next day.
He also quoted news-paper report (may 19) that his son was slain by the combined security force team on May 18 evening near Laikot Ching.
In a dramatic twist to the case, a JCO of the 23 Assam Rifles had handed over P Gunindro to Lamlai police station on May 19 claiming that Satish's accomplice was a member of an armed outfit.