Authorities in the north-eastern Indian state of Manipur have imposed an indefinite curfew and suspended internet services across several districts after violent protests erupted over the arrest of five leaders from Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei radical group.
The unrest began after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Asem Kanan Singh, the group’s chief, along with four other members, on June 7. Singh was detained at Imphal airport and later transferred to Guwahati in the neighbouring state of Assam. Officials say the arrests are linked to multiple criminal cases tied to the ethnic violence that broke out in the state in 2023.
Manipur has been plagued by periodic violence for more than a year, largely stemming from deep-rooted tensions between the majority Meitei and the minority Kuki communities. Over 250 people have been killed and tens of thousands displaced since the conflict erupted last year, centred around disputes over land, political representation, and tribal status.
Arambai Tenggol, which identifies as a social organisation, has considerable influence among the Meitei community. Following the arrests, supporters of the group staged protests across the capital, Imphal, setting fire to a bus, storming a police post, and clashing with security forces. Reports from Indian media outlets say police responded with tear gas and live ammunition, injuring at least one 13-year-old boy.
In response to the unrest, the state government imposed an indefinite curfew in parts of Imphal and suspended mobile internet and data services in five districts for at least five days. Public gatherings of four or more people have also been banned in several areas.
Adding to the tension, Arambai Tenggol declared a 10-day shutdown in parts of Manipur starting Saturday night.
The political fallout was swift. Priyanka Gandhi of the opposition Congress party criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of neglecting the crisis. “It is the prime minister’s responsibility to ensure peace and security… To step back from this is to turn away from one’s duty,” she posted on social media.
Earlier this year, the central government imposed direct federal rule in Manipur following the resignation of the chief minister amid mounting pressure from opposition leaders and rights groups.
On Sunday, a delegation of state lawmakers met with the state governor, urging the release of the arrested leaders. BJP legislator Kh Ibomcha said the group requested that the men be freed after police questioning.
With tensions escalating once again, the situation in Manipur remains volatile, underscoring the fragile peace and deep divisions in the conflict-hit state.
