Mon Feb 10 04:35:36 UTC 2025: **Manipur MLA Accuses Opponents of Spreading Doctored Video Amidst Ethnic Tensions**

IMPHAL, INDIA – PaoLienlal Haokip, a BJP MLA from Manipur’s Saikot constituency, has vehemently condemned the circulation of a manipulated video aimed at discrediting him. The video, which features a dubbed Meiteilon voiceover spliced onto an interview he gave to The Wire, falsely portrays Haokip as issuing threats. The doctored video even includes The Wire’s logo, giving it an appearance of authenticity.

Haokip, a prominent critic of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, believes the video is a deliberate attempt to radicalize the Meitei community against the Kuki tribes. He directly linked the video to the ongoing ethnic conflict, echoing previous claims by Kuki leaders alleging that Singh incited hostility towards the Kukis.

This incident is the latest in a series of online disinformation campaigns targeting individuals involved in the conflict. Examples cited include the spread of a fake photo purporting to show a Meitei woman murdered in Churachandpur, a false accusation against an RSS member, and a doctored video falsely portraying former Governor Anusuiya Uikey attending an RSS meeting. Even an AI-generated fake profile, allegedly run by a 44-year-old man, spread misinformation targeting security forces.

The ongoing online battle between the Meitei and Kuki communities shows no sign of abating, despite claims of relative stability on the ground. The conflict, which began in May 2023, stems from long-standing disputes over land rights, political representation, and resource allocation. The Meitei community seeks Scheduled Tribe status, while the Kukis advocate for a separate administration. The use of manipulated videos and other forms of online disinformation significantly exacerbates the already tense situation in Manipur.

Read More