Manipur Tense After Arrest of Arambai Tenggol Leader
Manipur descended into fresh turmoil following the arrest of Arambai Tenggol leader Kanan Singh along with four other members of the group. The detentions, made amid heightened tensions and the ongoing imposition of President’s Rule, triggered a wave of protests, road blockades, and public defiance across the Imphal valley.
The response was immediate and widespread. Protesters took to the streets, burning tyres and barricading roads. Several individuals reportedly doused themselves in petrol threatening self-immolation, demanding the immediate release of the arrested individuals. The volatile reaction underscored the influence wielded by Arambai Tenggol in the Meitei-dominated regions of the state.
Curfew and Communication Blackout Imposed
To curb the spread of unrest, the state administration imposed curfew orders across five valley districts—Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur. Bishnupur, in particular, witnessed a complete shutdown with an indefinite curfew being enforced.
Alongside the curfew, mobile internet and data services were suspended for five days across the region. The clampdown aimed to prevent the organisation of further protests and to restrict the circulation of provocative content online. Security forces were deployed in large numbers, and tear gas was used to disperse demonstrators in several hotspots.
Political and Investigative Ramifications
A general strike was called by Arambai Tenggol, further paralysing the already fragile socio-political environment. Meitei legislators appealed to the Governor seeking intervention for a resolution, while security agencies initiated a larger crackdown.
The Central Bureau of Investigation also arrested a member of Arambai Tenggol in connection with prior instances of violence, indicating a broadened central response to the escalating crisis. This marks a significant shift, suggesting national-level intervention into the activities of regional militia groups.
Militia Role in Ethnic Violence Under Spotlight
Arambai Tenggol has long been accused of being a key player in the ethnic violence that erupted in Manipur in 2023, with allegations of orchestrating attacks against the minority Kuki-Zo communities. The group’s rapid mobilisation capabilities and militant posturing have made it a subject of scrutiny in both security and political circles.
As violence once again engulfs the valley, calls are growing louder for a comprehensive peace dialogue that addresses the underlying ethnic tensions and militia politics that have gripped Manipur. The coming days will be critical in determining whether the state can restore order or sink further into confrontation and chaos.
