HC directs AR
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 05 2015:
A Division Bench of Manipur High Court comprising Chief Justice Laxmi Kanta Mohapatra and Justice Kh Nobin today directed Assam Rifles authority through an interim order to open NH-102 (Imphal-Moreh road) for 24 hours for the people, who need emergency medical care.
The directive came during a hearing of the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed against alleged closing of the highway at Khudengthabi and Tengnoupal areas between 6 pm and 6 am by Assam Rifles troops.
The PIL was filed by one Kh Kumarjit Singh on February 2 last.
Speaking to reporters after the hearing, Advocate Khaidem Mani said that he represented the complainant while Assistant Solicitor Salam Rupachandra represented the Government of India as a Counsel in today's hearing.
After the litigation was listed for today, the Division Bench conducted hearing of the PIL filed against the restriction imposed by Assam Rifles, which violates Article 19(1)(d), he added.
During today's hearing, the Court directed Assam Rifles to open the highway for 24 hours for the people who need emergency medical care.
The Court also asked Assam Rifles to submit a written reply before the Court in this regard within February 11 .
State Government's Counsel, who was also present at the hearing deposed before the Court that the State Government does not impose any restriction on the vehicles plying along the highway.
Respondents of the PIL are Union Defence Secretary, Union Home Secretary, Commanding Officers of 9 Assam Rifles, 24 Assam Rifles and 26 Assam Rifles and Principal Secretary (Home) of Government of Manipur.