Justice Somashekar moots judicial district status for Kangpokpi
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 18 2025: High Court of Manipur chief justice K Somashekar visited Mandap Sadbhavna relief camp in Kangpokpi district on Wednesday.

In a release, Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA) deputy member secretary S Mangaleibi Devi informed that during the visit the chief justice and judges of the High Court interacted with the internally displaced persons (IDPs) and distributed essential relief items, including Jumbo boxes, double folding mosquito nets, torch lights with lamps, Radio, diapers, buckets, mugs, infant milk, sanitary pads, soap, detergent, as well as sports and recreational items such as footballs, volleyballs, badminton, skipping ropes, and toys for children.

During the interaction programme, Chief Justice K Somashekar underscored the crucial role played by legal services institutions in promoting access to justice, especially for the vulnerable and marginalised groups.

He emphasised the constitutional guarantees enshrined in Articles 13 and 14 of the Constitution of India, reaffirming the judiciary's commitment to uphold the rule of law and the rights of all citizens and equality before the law to all persons within the territory of India.

He lauded the collective efforts of government agencies, peace groups, and volunteers in supporting those displaced by conflict.

Highlighting the significance of education, he called it the "most valuable material possession", essential for eradicating social stigma.

Referencing constitutional provisions, the Chief Justice emphasised the importance of free legal aid for tribal communities and underscored the principle of equality before the law.

He urged everyone to uphold justice and equality irrespective of societal status or background.

The chief justice also expressed that the efficiency of justice delivery would significantly improve if Kangpokpi district is granted the status of a judicial district.

As a part of awareness programme, MASLSA member secretary Alek Muivah highlighted the availability of free legal aid under Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, and the categories of eligible persons to receive legal assistance at free of cost.

He also informed the gathering about the pro visions for victim compensation implemented through the District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) and MASLSA, aimed at providing financial relief and support to victims of crime.

Alek further disclosed that MASLSA is planning to expand Legal Aid Defence Counsel System in five hili districts Including Senapati which will strengthen thei legal aid services in criminal matters facilitated by the Manipur State Legal Services Authority.

The visit-cum-interaction programme also included Senapati District & Sessions Judge & DLSA Senapati chairman Lamkholal Kipgen, Kangpokpi JMFC Robert Lhungdim, High Court of Manipur deputy registrar (judicial) J Hilson Angam, Mao JMFC Sheikh Asif Shah.

District Bar Association, Kangpokpi and Senapati, and All Tribal Lawyers' Association, Manipur members and officials.

As a token of appreciation, the Senapati and Kangpokpi Bar Association presented shawls to Justice Somashekar and Justice Muivah.

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