New Delhi - In an effort to investigate the recent wave of violence in Manipur, the central government has established a Commission of Inquiry. The commission, headed by former chief justice of the Gauhati High Court Ajai Lamba, will delve into the causes and extent of the violence and riots that occurred on May 3 and subsequent days. The primary objective of the commission is to unravel the sequence of events leading to the violence and gather all pertinent facts. Additionally, it will assess whether there were any lapses or negligence on the part of responsible authorities or individuals. The adequacy of administrative measures taken to prevent and address the violence and riots will also be examined.

The commission has been empowered to consider complaints or allegations presented by individuals or associations. It is expected to submit its comprehensive report to the central government within six months of its first sitting. However, if deemed necessary, the commission has the authority to submit interim reports prior to the specified deadline.

Assisting Justice Lamba on the commission are retired IAS officer Himanshu Shekhar Das and retired IPS officer Aloka Prabhakar. Their combined expertise will aid in conducting a thorough investigation into the series of events.

Manipur has experienced sporadic violence since the eruption of ethnic clashes on May 3. The death toll has tragically risen to over 80, according to officials. The initial outbreak of ethnic violence can be traced back to the organization of a 'Tribal Solidarity March' in the hill districts, which aimed to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Prior tensions arising from the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land had already contributed to a series of smaller agitations.