“Justice Must Come with a Touch of Humanity”: SC Judges Bring Legal and Medical Aid to Bishnupur Relief Camp

Bishnupur, March 22, 2025:

A high-level delegation of Supreme Court judges, led by Hon’ble Mr. Justice B.R. Gavai, visited the Moirang College Relief Camp in Bishnupur district, where they inaugurated a Free Legal Services Camp cum Free Medical Camp for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). The initiative aimed to deliver much-needed legal assistance and healthcare support to those displaced by the ongoing conflict in Manipur.

Speaking at the event, Justice B.R. Gavai emphasized the importance of compassion in the justice system, stating, “Justice must come with a touch of humanity.” He stressed that the real power of the law lies not in written statutes, but in its ability to uplift and empower people. “To achieve this, we must embrace empathy and compassion in our legal aid initiatives,” he added.

The camp was part of a two-day visit by the Supreme Court delegation, which included Justices Vikram Nath, M.M. Sundresh, K.V. Viswanathan, and N. Kotiswar Singh. They interacted with displaced families and personally distributed relief materials.

Justice Gavai highlighted the critical role of legal aid institutions, especially the State and District Legal Services Authorities, in ensuring that justice reaches the most marginalized. He noted that legal aid must go beyond court representation, including helping people access government documentation, welfare schemes, and basic rights.

He further acknowledged the unique challenges faced by the northeastern region, where difficult terrain and cultural diversity demand a locally relevant and accessible justice system. “True access to justice includes ensuring that victims of crime receive compensation, children get education, the elderly access pensions, and displaced persons reclaim their rights,” he said.

Also attending the camp were Hon’ble Chief Justice D. Khrishnakumar of the Manipur High Court, along with Justices A. Bimol Singh, A. Guneshwar Sharma, and Mrs. Justice Golmei Gaiphulshillu. Bishnupur Deputy Commissioner Shri Lourembam Bikram and other key officials were present as well.

The programme was organized under the aegis of National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) by Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA), in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority, Bishnupur, District Administration, Directorate of Health Services, Family Welfare, and RIMS. More than 35 departmental stalls were set up to offer services to displaced persons, and medical camps were held at 40 relief camps across Bishnupur district.

Justice Gavai concluded by urging legal professionals, government agencies, and civil society to continue working collectively to strengthen legal aid in the state. “The true success of legal aid lies not in the number of cases fought but in the lives it changes, the rights it restores, and the dignity it upholds,” he said.