A delegation from the High Court of Manipur, headed by Chief Justice Siddharth Mridul undertook a visit to Ukhrul to inspect the long-awaited construction progress of the District and Sessions Court in Ukhrul on Saturday.
During the visit, the Ukhrul Bar Association, under the leadership of its president, Qr Zimik Micheal Zimik, submitted a memorandum outlining three crucial demands.
These demands centered on the expedited completion of the District and Sessions Court, the appointment of a presiding officer to ensure regular court operations, and the establishment of a District Consumers Court.
Addressing the media, Chief Justice Siddharth Mridul assured that construction of the court building would commence within the current quarter. He underscored the significance of having both the district judge and the chief judicial magistrate stationed in Ukhrul, rather than relying on video conferencing from Imphal.
“The physical presence of judicial officers is paramount,” he emphasised, noting that it would facilitate prompt decision-making and enhance access to justice.
With the necessary land secured and construction plans sanctioned, the Chief Justice projected a timeline of approximately two and a half years for the completion of the building.
When queried about the purpose of the visit, he reiterated the Court’s commitment to ensuring ‘Access to Justice’ at every doorstep. He stressed the importance of having dedicated court infrastructure and personnel in Ukhrul to uphold the integrity of judicial proceedings and inspire public confidence.
Accompanying Chief Justice Mridul were esteemed members of the High Court team, including Justices A Bimol Singh and A Guneshwar Sharma, Registrar General Yumkham Rother, District and Sessions Judge Binny Ngangom, Registrar (Judicial) Ojesh Mutum, and Member Secretary of MASLSA Alek Muivah.
Their collective presence signaled a strong commitment to advancing the cause of justice in Ukhrul and ensuring the effective functioning of the legal system in the region.