HC asks enquiry committee to submit bi-weekly report
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 19 2024: The High Court of Manipur has issued directives to the inquiry committee to expedite the investigation into the disappearance of Laishram Kamalbabu Singh and submit bi-weekly reports.

The HC bench comprising chief justice D Krishnakumar and justice Golmei Gaiphul-shillu Kabui reviewed updates provided by the authorities and underscored the need for thorough and coordinated efforts during a hearing on Thursday.

The case, registered as WP (Crl) No 20 of 2024, was brought before the court by petitioner Laishram Brajabanshi Singh.

Representing the petitioner, senior counsel Kh Tarunkumar, assisted by W Jamon, highlighted the urgency of the matter, pointing out key areas requiring intensified focus.

Deputy advocate general H Debendra, representing the state, informed the court that an inquiry report dated December 18, had been submitted by the district magistrate, Kangpokpi.

The ongoing investigation includes the analysis of CCTV footage, which has been sent to the forensic science laboratory.

Additionally, a schematic map of the area in question has been obtained.

The court was informed that the army, under the Signal Regiment of the 57 Mountain Division, has deployed approximately 2,000 personnel weekly to assist in the search operations.

The state's counsel requested additional time to file a comprehensive status report based on updates from the inquiry committee and the investigating officer.

Meanwhile, Central government counsel BR Sharma, appearing for one of the respondents (No 4), informed the court that Captain Ashish Yadav of the 2/8 Gurkha Rifles has been designated to assist the investigating officer in the ongoing inquiries.

During the hearing, the petitioner's counsel raised concerns about the missing vehicle of the disappeared individual, emphasising its criticality to the investigation.

Responding to this, the Central government counsel assured the court that search efforts for the vehicle are underway.

The bench directed the investigating officer to continue with the inquiry and ordered the Commanding Officer of the Signal Regiment, 57 Mountain Division, to provide full cooperation.

Additionally, the enquiry committee has been instructed to submit detailed progress reports in a sealed cover to the registrar general of the High Court every two weeks.

The court has scheduled the next hearing for January 22, 2025, to review the progress of the investigation.

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