PAPPM Refutes ITLF Allegations, Calls for Truth and Accountability

Imphal, October 9, 2025 The People’s Alliance for Peace & Progress, Manipur (PAPPM) has issued a statement rejecting and condemning what it described as baseless allegations made by the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) against former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and the National Forensic Science Laboratory (NFSL).

In its release, PAPPM accused the ITLF of attempting to divert public attention from evidence pointing to its alleged involvement in orchestrating the violence that has disrupted the state. The organisation said the ITLF’s effort to discredit the NFSL’s findings was “a new low,” adding that the national forensic institution’s report, which stated the audio evidence was tampered with and unfit for verification, should be considered conclusive.

PAPPM said that N. Biren Singh’s tenure was marked by efforts to bridge the hill-valley divide, implement developmental projects, and launch the “War on Drugs” campaign to combat illegal poppy cultivation and forest encroachment. It alleged that vested interests affected by these actions were behind the ongoing campaign against him.

The alliance also reiterated that the violence of May 3, 2023, began with coordinated attacks by Kuki groups backed by armed militants in border areas of Churachandpur and Bishnupur, resulting in widespread destruction of Meitei homes and properties. It described the response from Meitei villagers as a defensive act to protect their lives and homes.

PAPPM further claimed that the ITLF has been identified in several reports as a front for militant interests and thus lacks moral standing to speak on human rights or justice issues.

The organisation urged ITLF to stop spreading misinformation and instead engage in peacebuilding by acknowledging its role in the 2023 violence, ending armed activities, and cooperating on key issues such as illegal immigration, poppy cultivation, and forest protection.

PAPPM reaffirmed its commitment to the unity and integrity of Manipur and expressed solidarity with all victims of violence, calling for truth, accountability, and peace in the state.