In a conciliatory move, the Manipur High Court has revoked parts of its controversial order directing the state government to consider Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the dominant Meitei community.
The original March 2023 ruling sparked strong protests from tribal groups like the Kukis, who feared losing their rights. Its aftermath saw violent unrest grip Manipur state.
Realizing the sensitivity, a bench headed by Justice Golmei Gaiphulshillu revisited the judgment. It noted that the order was passed without properly understanding the complex dynamics and legal bounds.
The main bone of contention – a paragraph directing the government to recommend Meitei inclusion in the ST list – has now been ordered deleted.
The High Court admitted it had erred by violating a Supreme Court ruling that forbids judiciary from unilaterally altering tribal classifications.
In October 2022, amidst swelling opposition, the High Court had allowed tribal bodies to formally appeal its ruling. Consequently in January, it accepted review petitions from various stakeholders.
While the Meitei community’s demands have merit, the Court indicated the issue is best addressed through constitutional processes. By seeking to align all interest groups, the judiciary hopes to heal rifts and maintain social harmony.
