A day after an accused (drugs trafficker) who appeared in the court tested positive for COVID-19, Special Court (ND&PS), Manipur directed special secretary (Home), Government of Manipur to take necessary steps to declare the place where the COVID-19 positive accused is kept as jail in the interest of justice.
The court issued the directive through video conferencing on Friday.
The Superintendent, Manipur Central Jail, Imphal and OC NAB police station informed the court that the accused namely Lalnu Touthang, who was found positive for COVID-19 has been admitted to JNIMS Covid care centre, Porompat.
Lalnu Touthang, arrested in connection with FIR number 12(7)2020 NAB PS U/S 21(c) /60(3) ND& PS Act and co-accused Denis Letjathang Chongloi were produced in the High Court of Manipur on Thursday.
During the time of production the accused sat together in the dock for about 20 minutes. Later, the Judge was informed that Denis had been handed over to Manipur Central Jail, Sajiwa and Lalnu was produced for testing before CMO, Imphal East and the result came positive for COVID-19.
The judge, a driver and four staffs of the court and one staff from special court (NDPS)(FTC) Manipur and about two lawyers were present during the court session. The ND&PS Judge in a statement intimated the state health director, requesting to conduct COVID-19 test for those staff and to disinfect the courtroom and its surrounding.
