New Delhi: The Supreme Court has asked the Central Forensic Science Lab (CFSL) to submit a report within six weeks in a sealed envelope regarding the Manipur violence. This comes after certain audio clips surfaced, allegedly implicating the Chief Minister of Manipur in inciting violence.

The Kuki Organization for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) has demanded a court-monitored investigation into these audio clips. It is claimed that in the audio, the CM allegedly stated that he allowed the Meiteis to instigate violence and protected them.

The petitioners’ lawyer argued that the tapes in question are extremely serious. The bench, headed by CJI Sanjiv Khanna and Justice PV Sanjay Kumar, instructed the Manipur government to ensure this does not escalate into another issue. The hearing will take place in the week starting March 24.

Justice Sanjay Kumar proposes recusal from hearing

At the beginning of the hearing, Justice PV Sanjay Kumar inquired whether he should recuse himself. In response, the petitioners’ lawyer stated that Justice Kumar need not step aside. It was noted that Justice Kumar had attended a dinner party hosted by the Manipur CM after his promotion to the Supreme Court.

The Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, had previously commented on the audio clip controversy in an interview with PTI.

Pressure mounts on Biren government to remain silent

The president of KOHUR, HS Benjamin Mate Kuki Impi, is also a top leader of another group. This group has supported the demand of Kuki leaders and insurgents for a separate administration in Manipur under the Suspension of Operation (SOO) agreement.

Supreme Court

The **Supreme Court** is the highest judicial body in many countries, including the United States, where it was established in 1789 under the Constitution. It serves as the final interpreter of federal law and the Constitution, with landmark rulings shaping civil rights, governance, and individual freedoms. The U.S. Supreme Court, composed of nine justices, operates from the **Supreme Court Building** in Washington, D.C., a neoclassical structure completed in 1935.

Central Forensic Science Lab (CFSL)

The **Central Forensic Science Lab (CFSL)** is a premier forensic science institution in India, established to provide scientific support for criminal investigations. Operated by the Directorate of Forensic Science Services (DFSS) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, it conducts advanced forensic analysis, including DNA testing, toxicology, and ballistics. The first CFSL was set up in Kolkata in 1957, with additional labs later established in Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chandigarh to aid law enforcement nationwide.

Manipur

Manipur, a northeastern Indian state, is known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, including the iconic Loktak Lake. Historically, it was an ancient kingdom with a recorded history dating back to 33 AD, famed for its classical dance form, *Ras Lila*, and the martial art *Thang-Ta*. Today, Manipur is also recognized for its vibrant festivals, such as *Yaoshang* (Holi) and *Sangai Festival*, celebrating its indigenous traditions and biodiversity.

Kuki Organization for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR)

The **Kuki Organization for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR)** is a human rights advocacy group based in Manipur, India, dedicated to protecting the rights of the Kuki tribal community. Established in response to ethnic conflicts and human rights violations in Northeast India, KOHUR works to document abuses, provide legal aid, and promote justice for victims. Its efforts focus on addressing issues such as violence, displacement, and discrimination faced by the Kuki people.

Meiteis

The Meiteis are an ethnic group primarily residing in the Manipur region of Northeast India, known for their rich cultural heritage and history. They have a distinct language (Meiteilon), traditional dance forms like *Ras Lila*, and a unique religion (Sanamahism), though many now practice Hinduism. The Meitei kingdom dates back to ancient times, with the historic Kangla Fort serving as a political and cultural center until the British annexation in 1891.

Manipur government

The Manipur government is the administrative body of Manipur, a northeastern Indian state known for its rich cultural heritage and history. Established after Manipur merged with India in 1949, it operates as a democratically elected state government under India’s federal system. The region has a unique history, having been a princely state before British colonization and later becoming a key part of independent India.

PTI

“PTI” most commonly refers to the **Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)**, a major political party in Pakistan founded in 1996 by Imran Khan, a former cricket star. The party advocates for anti-corruption reforms, social justice, and a welfare state, gaining significant popularity and winning the 2018 general elections. However, PTI has faced political turmoil, including Khan’s ousting as prime minister in 2022 and subsequent crackdowns on the party.

If you meant a different “PTI,” please provide more context!

Suspension of Operation (SOO) agreement

The **Suspension of Operation (SOO) agreement** is a temporary ceasefire or truce often used in conflict zones to halt hostilities between warring parties, typically without a formal peace treaty. Such agreements have been employed in various global conflicts, including in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, to facilitate negotiations or humanitarian efforts. While not a permanent solution, SOOs aim to reduce violence and create conditions for further dialogue.