Centre Claims Manipulation of Audio Linking Former Manipur CM to Ethnic Violence, Asserts Before Supreme Court

In a significant development surrounding the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur, the Union government presented a strong defense before the Supreme Court, asserting that an audio clip allegedly connecting former Chief Minister N Biren Singh to the unrest had been manipulated. This assertion came during the hearing of a petition from the Kuki Organization for Human Rights Trust, which has called for an impartial investigation into the authenticity of the audio recordings purportedly featuring Singh.

The Supreme Court’s proceedings were bolstered by a forensic analysis conducted by the National Forensic Sciences University in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Union government, informed the court that an expert from the Central Forensic Science Laboratories had identified a total of 41 alterations in the full audio clip. This evidence raised questions about the credibility of the recording, prompting the government to urge the court to dismiss the petition filed by the Kuki organization.

Despite the government’s claims, the bench comprising Justices Sanjay Kumar and Sanjeev Sachdeva ordered the provision of the forensic report to both the petitioner and the government. They emphasized the importance of allowing both parties to examine the findings before making a further determination. This decision underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness in handling sensitive issues related to the state’s current turmoil.

The audio clip in question, believed to be recorded in 2023, features an individual claiming to be Singh, discussing the origins of the conflict and allegedly boasting about defying an order from Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the use of explosives in the region. The content of this recording has raised serious concerns and accusations against Singh, further complicating an already fraught situation in Manipur, where ethnic strife has resulted in significant loss of life and property.

The political ramifications of these allegations could be profound, especially in a state already grappling with tension and strife. As the situation evolves, the Supreme Court’s approach to addressing the concerns raised by the Kuki Organization will be closely monitored, reflecting the delicate balance between legal scrutiny and the need for peace in the region.

Source: scroll.in