New Delhi, Feb 3 (UNI) The Supreme Court on Monday directed the submission of a forensic report in a sealed cover concerning audio tapes that allegedly feature Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh making statements suggesting his involvement in the state’s ethnic violence.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar directed to furnish the report in a sealed cover in response to a writ petition filed by the Kuki Organization for Human Rights Trust.
The court scheduled the next hearing for the week commencing March 24, 2025.
Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing the petitioner, submitted that “Truth Labs” had examined the tapes and confirmed with 93% certainty that the voice belonged to Biren Singh.
According to Bhushan, the tapes allegedly capture the Chief Minister stating that he allowed Meitei groups to loot the state armoury and assured them protection from arrest. The remarks were reportedly recorded during a closed-door meeting and subsequently leaked.
“This is a serious issue involving instigation and abetment of ethnic violence,” Bhushan contended.
Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, appearing for the state, argued that the petitioner should first approach the High Court. He informed the court that an FIR had been registered, an investigation was underway, and efforts were being made to verify the authenticity of the recordings.
Mehta also criticized the petitioner for allegedly carrying “ideological baggage” and accused certain civil society groups of wanting to “keep the pot boiling.”
Chief Justice Khanna inquired about the timeline for the forensic report from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL).
Mehta assured the bench that the report would be available soon.
Bhushan, however, insisted that the “Truth Labs” report held more credibility than any government agency’s findings.
The bench observed, “Audio clips are sent for examination by CFSL. The report will be produced in sealed cover,” while leaving the SG’s preliminary objection open for future consideration.
Earlier, a bench led by then Chief Justice DY Chandrachud had directed the petitioner to present evidence verifying the authenticity of the audio tapes. Following this directive, the petitioner submitted the analysis from Truth Labs.
