SC Seeks New Forensic Report on Audio Clips Alleging Ex-Manipur CM Biren Singh’s Involvement in Ethnic Violence

On May 5, the Supreme Court of India directed the submission of a fresh forensic report regarding audio recordings allegedly implicating former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in the State’s ongoing ethnic unrest. The directive came after the Court reviewed a sealed report from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) and found the need for further clarification.

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar was hearing a writ petition filed by the Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust. The petition sought a Court-monitored probe into audio recordings that allegedly featured the voice of Biren Singh, suggesting his involvement in the violence.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Court that the forensic report had been submitted in a sealed envelope and suggested that the investigation should proceed without unnecessary escalation. He added that the High Court could also review the report, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace in the region.

However, after reviewing the contents of the sealed report, the Chief Justice expressed dissatisfaction, stating: “Mr Mehta, please speak to the relevant authorities. What is this FSL report?” The Solicitor General admitted that he had not yet examined the report. The Court then requested that he read the contents, consult the appropriate departments, and ensure that a fresh forensic report is submitted after re-evaluation.

The Court issued an order stating: “The Solicitor General has placed the FSL report before us in a sealed cover. The report was unsealed and perused. The SG shall seek instructions regarding a fresh report based on re-examination. The matter is to be relisted in the week starting July 21, 2025. In the meantime, the investigation shall continue.”

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the petitioners, raised concerns about the ongoing probe being conducted by the State Police, especially since it involves the former Chief Minister. The Court, however, declined to halt the investigation. Addressing Bhushan’s concern, the CJI pointed out that President’s Rule had been imposed in the State, thereby addressing the issue of neutrality in the investigation.

The Chief Justice remarked: “Now that President’s Rule is in effect, your concern is taken care of. We are fully aware of the situation, which is why we’ve given an early date for the next hearing.”

The petition, filed under W.P.(C) No. 702/2024, has been part of an ongoing legal battle. In an earlier hearing in February, the Court had asked for the CFSL’s assessment of the recordings. The petitioner’s counsel had presented a certification from Truth Labs—a private forensic analysis centre—affirming the authenticity of the clips.

President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur in February 2025, nearly two years after the outbreak of ethnic violence. Just before the Centre's intervention, Biren Singh stepped down from his position as Chief Minister.