Manipur Unrest Escalates After Meitei Leader’s Arrest; Internet Suspended in 5 Districts
IMPHAL/NEW DELHI – Tensions flared once again in violence-scarred Manipur on Saturday as protests erupted following the arrest of a prominent Meitei leader, prompting the state government to impose prohibitory orders and suspend internet services across five districts in the Imphal Valley.
The unrest was triggered by the arrest of Kanan Singh, a member of the controversial Arambai Tenggol group, by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at Imphal Airport. Singh has been accused of involvement in criminal activities linked to the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence.
Arrest Sparks Statewide Outrage
As news of Singh’s arrest spread, dozens of protesters gathered outside Imphal Airport, attempting to block roads to prevent his transfer. In a shocking display of desperation, several protesters doused themselves with petrol, threatening self-immolation in videos that have since gone viral.
“Violent protests broke out after the arrest of a leader of Arambai Tenggol. Three people have been injured in the clash with agitators and personnel. All preventive measures are in place,” said a senior police officer on condition of anonymity.
Flashpoints in Imphal: Clashes and Arson
Protests quickly escalated into violent clashes across multiple locations in Imphal. In Khurai Lamlong (Imphal East), a mob set a public bus on fire, while near Kangla Gate, just 200 meters from the Raj Bhavan, police fired multiple rounds of tear gas to disperse agitators.
Gunshots were also reportedly heard in Kwakeithel, although authorities have yet to confirm the source of the firing.
“These are sensitive areas with a history of flare-ups. Forces have been deployed to prevent any escalation,” an official from the state home department stated.
CBI Confirms Arrest and Case Details
In an official statement, the CBI Anti-Corruption Branch (Guwahati) confirmed Singh’s arrest at Imphal Airport. He has been flown to Guwahati and will be produced before the competent court for remand.
“Kanan Singh, a member of Arambai Tenggol (AT), was involved in various criminal activities related to the Manipur violence in 2023. His family has been informed,” the agency stated.
Valley Under Lockdown: Internet Cut and Prohibitory Orders Imposed
To prevent further escalation, internet services—including mobile data, VPNs, and VSAT access—have been suspended in the following districts:
- Imphal West
- Imphal East
- Thoubal
- Bishnupur
- Kakching
An official government order noted the risk of social media misuse, stating:
“There is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media for transmission of images, hate speech, and hate videos that could incite public unrest.”
The order also invoked Sub-section 2 of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to prohibit gatherings of five or more people and ban possession of sticks, stones, firearms, and sharp weapons.
Residents in Imphal East and Bishnupur districts have been ordered to stay indoors from 10 PM Saturday until further notice.
Ethnic Tensions Continue to Simmer
This latest outbreak underscores the volatile situation in Manipur, which has been embroiled in deep ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities since mid-2023. The Arambai Tenggol, often described as a Meitei extremist group, has been under scrutiny for its alleged involvement in communal violence and attacks on minorities.
Singh’s arrest, viewed by his supporters as politically motivated, has re-ignited fears of renewed unrest in a region struggling to return to normalcy.
Government Response and Appeal for Calm
The state administration has urged the public to remain calm, warning that any disruption of public order will be dealt with strictly. Security has been ramped up in sensitive zones, and additional forces have been deployed.
No official statement has been issued by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh as of Sunday morning.