IMPHAL, April 18: Senior spokesperson of the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC), Ningombam Bupenda Meitei, has strongly refuted rumours circulating on social media linking him to the ongoing Supreme Court case concerning the alleged leaked audio involving former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
Speaking at a press conference in Imphal, Bupenda clarified that he has no involvement whatsoever in the case and has not signed any vakalatnama on behalf of either the petitioner or the respondent. He categorically denied appearing as legal counsel in the matter and condemned the spread of false information aimed at tarnishing his image and that of the Congress party.
“These rumours are being circulated with the sole intention of damaging the reputation of the Congress Party and myself,” Bupenda stated. He added that such misinformation, especially in the current volatile atmosphere in Manipur, constitutes intimidation and poses serious threats to life and property.
He further alleged that individuals behind the false narratives were either affiliated with the BJP or its supporters. Issuing a stern warning, Bupenda demanded that those responsible delete the defamatory posts within 12 hours of his media statement or face legal consequences.
To address the issue formally, Bupenda said he had sent complaints via WhatsApp to the Governor through his secretary, and also to the Director General of Police (DGP), Additional DGP, and the Chief Secretary. He also announced plans to escalate the matter by writing to the President of India, the Prime Minister, and the Union Home Minister.
MPCC Vice President Hareshwar Goswami and other senior party leaders were present during the briefing. MPCC President K. Meghachandra had earlier backed Bupenda, asserting that dragging the Congress spokesperson’s name into the case was a deliberate attempt to defame both him and the party.
Prior to the press conference, Bupenda addressed the matter on social media, stating: “There is a rumour going around that I have appeared as an advocate for the petitioner in the alleged leaked audio tape case in the Supreme Court. I have to inform you all that I am not a counsel or advocate of the petitioner or any party or the respondent in the said case. It is extremely unfortunate to see the spread of rumour and false news dragging my name in a matter I am not connected with. Please don’t spread rumour.”
He reiterated that legal action would be taken against anyone found spreading such unfounded allegations.
