Image Credit: X account @RajBhavManipur
25 MLAs Meet Governor Amid Fresh Violence in Manipur
A delegation of more than 25 legislators from various political parties met Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla in Imphal on Sunday as fresh violence gripped Manipur. The MLAs, joined by Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba, urged the governor to intervene and seek an amicable resolution to recent unrest triggered by the arrest of five members of the Meitei outfit, Arambai Tenggol.
MLAs Seek Governor’s Intervention
The group met at Raj Bhavan to brief the governor on the escalating law-and-order crisis in the Imphal Valley and implored him to take swift action. In return, Governor Bhalla assured them that “all necessary steps are being taken to address the concerns and to restore normalcy,” according to an official statement from his office.
Arrests Spark Widespread Protests
The recent arrests—one by the CBI and four others by Manipur police—sparked protests across Imphal starting Saturday afternoon. An agitated crowd stormed the Kwakeithel police outpost, prompting security forces to resort to firing to disperse demonstrators. Authorities subsequently imposed prohibitory orders and a state-wide internet shutdown in five Imphal Valley districts to curb violence.
CBI Confirms Key Arrest
BJP MLA K. Ibomcha informed the gathering that one of the arrested individuals, Kanan Singh, was detained by the CBI. He clarified that Singh was not held by state police, though details of the case were not made public. The remaining four were taken into custody by local police and are being screened for further investigation.
Security Measures Intensified
Governor Bhalla convened a parallel review meeting with senior security officials to assess ground realities and deploy additional forces where required. An indefinite curfew and suspension of mobile data and internet services remain in force across Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching districts.
Risks to Ethnic Peace
This unrest is a symptom of the deeper ethnic fault-lines—primarily between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities—that have plagued Manipur since May 2023. The presence of Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei hardliner often tied to the erstwhile chief minister, adds another layer of complexity. Its leaders have been accused of orchestrating violence during previous clashes, heightening communal tensions.
Urgent Call for Resolution
With over ten individuals injured in clashes, including a journalist, and vehicles torched in Imphal, the atmosphere remains volatile. The MLAs emphasized that release of arrested members could ease tensions. However, security forces remain vigilant, and a phased healing appears distant until a political settlement is reached.
