Taking due cognizance of “The Wire’s” acknowledgment of the Manipur’s leaked audio, the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) has strongly condemned the Manipur Chief Minister, N. Biren Singh, after the release of an alleged leaked audio implicating him in orchestrating violence and ethnic cleansing against the Kuki-Zo community.
In a statement issued today, KIM Secretary of Information and Publicity, Janghaolun Haokip, referred to the audio as irrefutable evidence of the Chief Minister’s role in a premeditated campaign of ethnic violence. In the recording, Biren Singh is purportedly heard admitting to leading a targeted assault on the Kuki-Zo people, a minority community in the state.
KIM described the situation as a grave threat to national security, accusing the Manipur government of state-sponsored atrocities, including spreading false narratives labeling the Kuki-Zo community as “illegal immigrants,” “poppy cultivators,” and “foreigners.” These labels, according to KIM, have been used to justify the brutal actions taken against the community.
The Kuki Inpi has called on the Government of India to take immediate and decisive action in response to the evidence presented in the audio. “The silence and inaction of the Government of India would raise serious concerns about their commitment to peace and justice,” the statement read. The organization demanded that Biren Singh and others involved in the alleged ethnic cleansing campaign be held accountable for their actions.
KIM also reiterated their call for a political solution, urging the Indian government to recognize the legitimacy of their demand for a Union Territory for the Kuki-Zo people. They believe this is the only way to ensure the safety, dignity, and long-term peace for the community.
The leaked audio and the ongoing conflict have heightened tensions in the region, with the Kuki-Zo people seeking justice and protection amidst escalating violence.
