Supreme Court Orders CBI Probe into Death of Manipuri Woman, Dismissing High Court Verdict

In a significant development, the Supreme Court has overturned a verdict by the Delhi High Court and directed a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the mysterious death of a 25-year-old Manipuri woman, A S Reingamphi, who was found dead under suspicious circumstances in her rented house in south Delhi back in 2013.

The apex court’s decision comes amidst concerns about unresolved crimes eroding public trust in law enforcement institutions. The deceased woman’s cousins, Awungshi Chirmayo and Thotreithem Longpinao, had petitioned the high court for a CBI investigation, which was initially dismissed citing lack of bias in the ongoing investigation.

However, dissatisfied with the progress of the case, the cousins approached the Supreme Court, which had earlier formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to oversee the investigation. Despite the SIT’s conclusion that the woman had allegedly committed suicide, the Supreme Court expressed skepticism, noting inconsistencies in the evidence.

Observing that the crime scene indicated a homicidal death rather than suicide, the Supreme Court emphasized the need for a fair and effective investigation. Consequently, the bench of justices J K Maheshwari and Sudhanshu Dhulia set aside the Delhi High Court’s order and directed the transfer of the case to the CBI.

The Supreme Court’s decision aims to address concerns regarding the effectiveness of the investigation and to instill confidence in the justice system. It underscores the importance of ensuring accountability and bringing the perpetrators to justice in cases of unresolved crimes.

The CBI has been tasked with conducting a thorough investigation and submitting its findings expeditiously. The transfer of the case from the SIT to the CBI signifies a renewed effort to uncover the truth behind the Manipuri woman’s untimely demise and to deliver justice to the victim’s family.

As the CBI delves into the case, it is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death and to provide closure to her grieving family. The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores its commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and transparency in the administration of justice.

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