In a powerful outreach effort to promote justice and dignity for displaced families, Justice K. Somashekar, Chief Justice of the High Court of Manipur and Patron-in-Chief of the Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA), visited the Mandop relief camp in Ward No. 11, Kangpokpi Town, on Wednesday. The visit was part of MASLSA’s ongoing Promotional Legal Aid and Awareness Campaign, aimed at ensuring legal inclusion and fundamental rights for vulnerable communities. Accompanied by Justice Alek Muivah, other MASLSA members, and its Secretary, Justice Somashekar engaged directly with the residents, officials, and volunteers at the camp, where 38 displaced families have been taking shelter due to ongoing ethnic unrest in the region. In his address, the Chief Justice reaffirmed the judiciary’s unwavering commitment to upholding constitutional rights and guaranteeing free legal aid, particularly to tribal communities and the marginalised. “Equality before the law is not just a principle—it is a promise we must uphold in every corner of our state,” he stated.
He lauded the combined efforts of local administration, peace organisations, and civil society volunteers in supporting relief operations. He also stressed the transformative power of education, calling it the key to overcoming social stigma and creating empowered, self-reliant communities. “Education is the most powerful tool to secure dignity and future for the youth, especially those impacted by conflict,” he said.Justice Alek Muivah, Secretary of MASLSA, echoed similar sentiments, citing Article 39A of the Constitution, which guarantees free legal aid to all citizens, particularly the economically weaker sections. He introduced various legal outreach programs, including the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) initiatives, Lok Adalats, and the Free Legal Aid Helpline, which are designed to ensure that justice reaches the last mile.To support the camp residents, Justice Somashekar and his team also distributed relief materials to all 38 families residing at Mandop. In a touching gesture, the Senapati and Kangpokpi Bar Association presented traditional shawls to both Justices as tokens of gratitude for their efforts to bring legal awareness and support to the displaced.
The event saw the presence of the Deputy Commissioner (DC), Superintendent of Police (SP), Additional District Magistrate (ADM), members of MASLSA, District Level Officers (DLOs), and representatives from the Senapati and Kangpokpi Bar Associations. Their presence highlighted the collaborative commitment of the judiciary, administration, and legal fraternity in addressing humanitarian and legal challenges facing displaced communities.
