Fresh violence in Manipur has once again plunged the troubled northeastern state into turmoil, with multiple districts under total curfew, internet services suspended, and escalating tensions following the reported arrest of a leader from the Meitei outfit Arambai Tenggol — believed to be Kanan Singh.
Key Developments:
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Triggering Incident: The unrest began Saturday night after reports emerged that Kanan Singh, a prominent figure in the Arambai Tenggol group, had been arrested. While authorities have not officially named him, the rumour alone was enough to ignite mass protests across the Imphal valley.
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Protest Escalation: Protesters resorted to road blockades, tyre burnings, and confrontations with security forces. In Khurai Lamlong, a bus was set ablaze. In Kwakeithel, gunshots were heard amid the chaos. At Imphal Airport, demonstrators blocked roads and camped out overnight to prevent the alleged transfer of the arrested leader.
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Forceful Crackdown: Security forces used tear gas and lathi charges to disperse crowds. One death has been reported, allegedly from police action. Security was further intensified around key sites, including Raj Bhavan.
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Wider Disruptions:
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Total curfew imposed in Bishnupur district.
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Prohibitory orders in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, and Kakching.
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Internet suspended for five days across all valley districts to curb online mobilisation.
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Viral Political Moment: A video circulating online shows BJP Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba directly challenging security personnel, questioning the crackdown and offering to be arrested alongside an MLA — underscoring growing political friction and public frustration with the central government's handling of the crisis.
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Arambai Tenggol's Response: The group has announced a ten-day shutdown in valley districts, preparing for intensified protest. Initially a cultural outfit, Arambai Tenggol has morphed into a militia-like force, accused of involvement in the long-running Meitei–Kuki ethnic conflict.
Background Context:
Manipur has been gripped by ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 2023, with over 260 deaths and thousands displaced. The Centre imposed President’s Rule in February 2025 after CM N. Biren Singh resigned, though peace remains elusive. Security forces continue to conduct arrests and recover weapons, including IEDs found on Saturday in Tengnoupal.
Broader Implications:
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This latest flare-up highlights the fragile security and communal fault lines still haunting Manipur.
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The crackdown on Arambai Tenggol could backfire if not accompanied by broader reconciliation efforts.
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The failure to de-escalate and address community grievances risks triggering another cycle of prolonged unrest in the valley.
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The Centre’s strategy in dealing with ethnic militias and public dissent is likely to come under renewed scrutiny, especially with regional leaders openly challenging federal actions.
In short, Manipur remains on edge, with militant assertion, community anger, and political discontent converging into a dangerously combustible situation.
