The release of voice clips, purportedly of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, allegedly fanning the riots between Meiteis and Kukis, by The Wire has reportedly created an impact among political figures, parties, and organisations across India, prompting demands for a thorough probe into the matter.
The audio clips, which have been submitted to the Commission of Inquiry by the Ministry of Home Affairs, have raised serious concerns about the role of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in the ongoing violence in the state.
The audio file, purportedly featuring the voice of Chief Minister Singh, suggests possible official complicity in the conflict that has gripped Manipur since 3 May 2023. If the recording is authenticated, it would serve as a critical piece of evidence indicating that the violence may have been influenced or exacerbated by those in power, rather than being solely an ethnic conflict.
The Congress, through its spokespersons, has demanded a thorough investigation into the contents of the tapes. Similarly, leaders from the Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Aam Aadmi Party have used social media platforms to highlight the gravity of the situation, urging the central government to take immediate action.
The allegations include the possible authorisation of using heavy weaponry against civilian populations, shielding those involved in looting arms, and politically motivated arrests, all of which have contributed to deepening the rift between the Meitei and Kuki communities.
These claims have intensified calls for accountability, with some political parties describing the revelations as a "crime" committed by the current administration in Manipur and by extension, implicating higher authorities at the national level.
Among the most vocal critics are regional parties and community organisations. The Trinamool Congress has accused the BJP-led state government of not only failing to manage the situation but of being directly involved in exacerbating the violence. The Kuki Students’ Organisation has also condemned the alleged inaction of the central government regarding the leaked audio, viewing it as further evidence of bias and neglect.
The controversy surrounding the Manipur Tapes underscores the growing mistrust between the state's communities and the government.