Judical inquiry of Cherish S. Thangkhiew encounter case will take time: MHRC Chairperson

Speaking to The Northeast Today, he said, “This inquiry is ongoing. It may take some time, say after next week so, I cannot say the exact time. I will determine as to whether witnesses are to be examined, whether some documents filed are to be disclosed to the other party or not.”

 | 

SHILLONG:

Chairperson of Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC) Justice T. Vaiphei, who is heading the judicial inquiry of former self-styled HNLC general secretary late Cherish S. Thangkhiew encounter case, has stated that the probe to investigate the matter will take time. 

Speaking to The Northeast Today, he said, “This inquiry is ongoing. It may take some time, say after next week so, I cannot say the exact time. I will determine as to whether witnesses are to be examined, whether some documents filed are to be disclosed to the other party or not.”

He said that the problem is the procedure technicalities that always come in the way of quick disposal of inquiry.

Asked, he said that there is a possibility of extension. He was earlier granted one months’ extension with effect from November 20 but he received the letter on November 26 or 27.

“Further extension cannot be ruled out in this case. The enquiry will continue after sometime,” he said.

As to whether the enquiry is to be made public or resort to in-camera proceeding, Vaiphei said that the question of going for -camera proceeding or public proceeding also needs to be determined.

“Ideally speaking, there's no new provision like that discretion should be given to the inquiry commission as to whether it should be made in-camera or not. But if a demand is made by the government, I may not have any alternative but to accede to the demand,” he said.

Meanwhile, when asked about the alleged fake encounters in Garo Hills and allegations of people being accused and killed of witchcraft, Vaiphei said that the Commission has not received any complaint so far.

“Complaints have to be there and the complainant should have evidence. Without evidence we cannot recommend action against them,” he said.

Commenting on the Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA), the Chairperson observed that the said Act is a question of striking a balance between the security of state and individual liberty, “I feel that it should be repealed or modified. I think presently the Act is leaning very much in favour of the military forces and against the citizens,” he said.

TNT-The Northeast Today is now on WhatsApp: CLICK HERE to receive more updates on your phone.

ALSO READ: NESO to observe December 11 as Black Day to protest against CAA