Imphal, Manipur – June 8, 2025 — Fresh violence has gripped Manipur’s Imphal Valley following the arrest of a top leader of the controversial Meitei group, Arambai Tenggol. The action triggered massive public outrage, leading to widespread protests, a complete internet shutdown, and the enforcement of curfews across key districts.
The situation remains tense, with demonstrators clashing with police, setting vehicles ablaze, and blocking roads — indicating that peace in the strife-torn region remains elusive.
Who is Arambai Tenggol and Why Was Its Leader Arrested?
Arambai Tenggol is a radical Meitei outfit allegedly involved in the ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities that erupted in May 2023. What started as a revivalist cultural group in 2020 evolved into a paramilitary-style militia often accused of instigating violence, arming civilians, and intimidating minorities.
On Saturday, the police arrested one of its top leaders — believed to be Kanan Singh, though officials have not officially confirmed the identity. This arrest has reignited fears of widespread communal unrest, leading to retaliatory protests across Imphal, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching.
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Source: CNN-News 18
Widespread Protests Rock Imphal Valley
Violent protests erupted soon after the news broke. Protesters took to the streets in large numbers:
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In Khurai Lamlong, mobs torched tyres and a city bus.
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In Kwakeithel, multiple gunshots were heard amid stone pelting between protestors and security personnel.
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Protesters blocked access to Imphal Airport, with two youths even attempting self-immolation.
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At least one protester was seriously injured when police resorted to baton charges and tear gas.
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Several journalists were assaulted while covering the events, raising concerns about press freedom during civil unrest.
Such incidents are a stark reminder of the underlying volatility in Manipur, where tension between ethnic groups continues to simmer.
Total Curfew in Bishnupur, Prohibitory Orders in 4 Districts
In response to the situation spiraling out of control, the Manipur government has imposed a full curfew in Bishnupur district starting 10 p.m. on Saturday. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were also implemented in:
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Imphal East
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Imphal West
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Thoubal
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Kakching
These orders prohibit the assembly of more than five people and restrict public movement, aiming to contain the growing civil unrest.
Internet Shutdown in 5 Districts for 5 Days
Adding to the disruption, the Manipur Home Department has suspended internet services in five districts — Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur — for a period of five days starting Saturday night at 11:45 p.m.
According to an official order, the suspension includes mobile data, broadband, VSAT, and VPN services. The move is aimed at preventing the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and provocative content on social media platforms.
Arambai Tenggol Calls for 10-Day Bandh
In what seems to be a retaliatory move, Arambai Tenggol has announced a 10-day bandh (shutdown) across the Imphal Valley demanding the immediate release of its leader. The bandh could paralyze daily life in the region, including markets, schools, and transport services.
This is seen by many as a test of the group’s influence and the state’s ability to maintain law and order.
Ethnic Tensions: A Recap of the Manipur Conflict
Since May 3, 2023, Manipur has been caught in the grip of one of the worst ethnic conflicts in its history. Over the last two years:
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More than 258 people have died
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Over 60,000 have been displaced
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Over 400 churches and 132 temples have been destroyed
While the original conflict began over a reservation demand by the Meitei community, it has snowballed into a prolonged ethnic and armed conflict between the majority Meiteis in the valley and Kuki-Zo tribes in the hills.
Groups like Arambai Tenggol and Meitei Leepun have been accused of carrying out vigilante-style violence and targeted attacks during the early phases of the unrest
Security Forces on High Alert
Security agencies, including paramilitary troops and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel, have been deployed across sensitive zones. With the internet blackout in effect, command centers have shifted focus to radio communication and on-ground intelligence to monitor protest hotspots.
The Manipur Police have also intensified flag marches and vehicle checks to prevent weapons or mobs from regrouping.
What This Means for Manipur
The arrest of an Arambai Tenggol leader could either be seen as a bold administrative move or a political gamble. Here’s why this situation is critical:
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Risk of Reigniting Violence: The bandh and protests could reignite armed clashes, especially along border districts.
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Disruption of Civil Life: Internet cuts and curfews affect access to health, education, banking, and news.
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Freedom of Expression: The crackdown on journalists and protestors raises concerns about human rights and media freedom.
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Wider Political Ramifications: The Centre and BJP-led state government may face pressure over handling the prolonged crisis.
Public Reactions
Many locals, especially among the Meitei population, view the arrest as provocative and politically motivated. On the other hand, civil society groups and Kuki-Zo leaders have welcomed the arrest, calling it a step toward neutralizing extremist elements.
Social media, despite the blackout, has been buzzing in neighboring states with hashtags like:
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#ManipurUnrest
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#ArambaiTenggol
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#CurfewInImphal
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#JusticeForManipur
Conclusion
As Manipur stares at another volatile phase, the focus shifts to how the government balances law enforcement with human rights. The arrest of an Arambai Tenggol leader may signal a tougher stance on militancy, but the immediate fallout — protests, shutdowns, and loss of public trust — could destabilize the region further.
Unless there’s a coordinated peace process and inclusive dialogue, the cycle of arrests and protests may only deepen the wounds in this conflict-ridden state.