Manipur Violence: Internet Snapped, Curfew Imposed, Tension Mounts After Arrest of Meitei Leader

After the leader of the Meitei group, Arambai Tenggol, was arrested, there was more violence in Manipur. There were large-scale protests, fights with security forces, and major problems with maintaining law and order in many areas.

Background and Set Off

On Saturday night, news spread that Kanan Singh, the leader of the extreme Meitei group Arambai Tenggol, had been arrested by police in the Kwakeithel area of Imphal. Protests broke out right away and were very strong in Imphal and the valley districts nearby, such as Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Kakching, and Thoubal.

What Caused the Unrest

Protesters set fire to tyres, old furniture, and even a bus in several areas of Imphal, such as Tiddim road, Uripok, and Khurai Lamlong.

Roads were stopped, and protesters and security forces got into fights that got violent. Several people were hurt.

In some places, like Kwakeithel, gunshots were heard, but the cause has not been confirmed.

Some members of Arambai Tenggol apparently poured gasoline over themselves as a dramatic and symbolic way to protest. They also threatened to set themselves on fire.

A group of protesters also blocked and circled the entrance to Imphal's Tulihal airport because they thought the arrested leader might be flown out of the state.

Government Response

Starting at 11 p.m. on June 7, 2025, the Manipur government put a total ban on the Bishnupur district and issued prohibitory orders under section 144.

Internet and mobile data services were turned off for five days in five important valley districts: Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Kakching, and Thoubal. 

Setting of the Conflict

For more than two years, Manipur has had problems with racial tensions between the mostly Hindu Meitei community and the mostly Christian Kuki group. Competition for land and state jobs is at the heart of the conflict, which has killed more than 250 people and forced about 60,000 to leave their homes since 2023.

An extreme Meitei group called Arambai Tenggol has been blamed for planning violence against the Kuki community. This latest incident is the latest in a series of regular occurrences in the area.

Current Situation

The situation remains tense with curfews and internet suspensions still in effect as authorities attempt to control the law and order situation. Protests continue, and the demand for the release of the arrested Meitei leader remains a focal point of unrest.