Manipur witnessed a resurgence of violent protests on Saturday following the arrest of a prominent Meitei group member. The situation quickly escalated, prompting authorities to impose curfews, restrict gatherings, and suspend internet services in several key districts.
Arrest Sparks Violent Backlash
The unrest erupted after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Kanan Singh. He is a member of the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol and was arrested from Imphal Airport. Singh was reportedly linked to criminal incidents associated with the 2023 Manipur violence. According to officials, he was taken into custody. Then he was transported to Guwahati. There he will appear before a court for police remand.
In response to the arrest, a large number of protesters surrounded Imphal Airport, attempting to block authorities from transferring Singh. Demonstrators also took over main roads, disrupting traffic and public movement.
Protesters Douse Themselves in Petrol
A disturbing video circulating on social media showed several men—clad in black—pouring petrol on themselves and threatening self-immolation. Although the authenticity of the footage remains unverified, it marks a grave escalation in the ongoing tensions.
Security personnel clashed with protestors across different parts of Imphal. A bus was set on fire in Khurai Lamlong area of Imphal East. In another high-tension area near Kangla Gate, the location is just a short distance from the Raj Bhavan. Tear gas was used to disperse mobs.
Gunfire was reportedly heard in Kwakeithel, though authorities have yet to confirm the source or responsible parties.
Internet Blackout and Curfews Enforced
The Manipur administration imposed prohibitory orders in five districts to prevent further flare-ups. These districts are Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur. Mobile data and broadband services have been suspended. This includes VSAT and VPNs. The suspension is a precautionary measure to curb the spread of provocative content on social media.
An official notification cited concerns over the misuse of digital platforms to share hate speech and incite violence. “There is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively. They could transmit images, hate speech, and videos. This could aggravate public unrest,” it stated.
Movement Restrictions and Weapon Ban
Authorities have also enforced restrictions under Section 163(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Public gatherings of more than five people have been banned. Possessing weapons, including sticks, stones, and firearms, is strictly prohibited.
In Imphal East and Bishnupur, a curfew has been imposed from 10 PM on Saturday until further notice. Residents are advised to stay indoors, with security forces deployed across sensitive zones to maintain order.
Also read: Joint Counter-Insurgency Operations in Manipur Lead to Major Militant Crackdown
Ongoing Tensions Amid Uncertainty
This latest episode highlights the fragile situation in Manipur. The region continues to reel from repeated cycles of ethnic and political unrest. Authorities have said that preventive measures are in place. However, the volatile mood on the ground signals that further disturbances cannot be ruled out.
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