SC Probes Manipur Violence: Why Not Entire Leaked Audio Sent for Forensic Analysis?

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The Supreme Court on Monday expressed concern over the partial forensic examination of leaked audio clips linked to the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence. The court questioned why the entire 48-minute audio clip was not sent for analysis, despite a plea alleging former chief minister N Biren Singh's involvement in the violence. The top court was hearing a petition filed by the Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR), which seeks an independent probe into the violence that killed over 260 people and displaced thousands. The clashes began between the Imphal valley-based Meitei and neighbouring hills-based Kuki communities in May 2023. A forensic report by the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) had previously stated that the leaked audio clips were tampered with. However, a separate report suggested that one of the recordings was unedited. The Supreme Court has now asked the government authorities to explain why the entire audio clip was not sent for analysis. The court's concern comes amid allegations that Singh was instrumental in inciting and orchestrating violence against the Kuki-dominated areas in Manipur. The apex court has fixed the matter for hearing on January 7, seeking a response from the government within a week. The Manipur violence began after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against an order of the Manipur High Court on the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The violence has left a significant impact on the state, with thousands displaced and over 260 people killed.