Manipur CM's doctored audio saying he started 'ethnic cleansing' surfaces
What's the story
The Manipur government has dismissed an audio clip, allegedly containing offensive remarks by Chief Minister N Biren Singh against the state's ethnic minorities, as a fake.
The clip has been circulating on social media since Wednesday, according to news agency PTI and The Hindu.
In the doctored audio, Singh said that he started the "ethnic cleansing" of tribals since he foresaw "the downfall of the Meiteis."
Government statement
'Doctored' clip aimed at inciting communal violence: Government
In a statement released on Thursday, the state government said, "It has come to notice of the government that an audio recording, falsely claiming to be that of the Chief Minister...is being circulated on social media platforms."
The government further labelled the audio as a "doctored" piece intended to incite communal violence and disrupt the ongoing peace process.
"The Manipur Police are actively investigating the matter and are committed to uncovering the origins of this defamatory campaign," it said.
Allegations
Kuki Students's Organization alleges Singh's voice in clip
The audio clip features a man's voice speaking in Meitei and interacting with several individuals.
The Kuki Students's Organization (KSO) claimed that this voice belongs to CM Singh.
In its statement, KSO alleged that Singh was "boasting in a closed-door meeting with his cliques that he initiated the war against the Kuki-Zo people to save Meitei Civilization."
Conflict
Manipur conflict ongoing since May 2023
Manipur has been embroiled in ethnic violence since May 2023 after a high court recommended the inclusion of the Meities in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list.
Soon after, the tribals organized a tribal solidarity march in the hill districts to protest the Meiteis' demand for ST status.
The Meiteis—who make up 53% of the population—are largely limited to the Imphal Valley.
In comparison, tribal-dominated hill areas reportedly cover 90% of Manipur.