Manipur’s ethnic tensions explode anew as the arrest of Arambai Tenggol leaders sparks riots and chilling self-immolation threats. With security forces clashing with mobs, authorities have cut off internet services to control the escalating unrest.
BY PC Bureau
In a dramatic escalation of tensions in Manipur’s capital, Imphal, cadres of the radical Meitei militia Arambai Tenggol went berserk late Saturday evening, following the arrest of their self-styled “Army Chief,” Kanan Singh, and four senior members by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
The arrests, linked to arms looting and kidnapping cases, sparked violent protests, with cadres attacking Manipur Police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, pelting stones at Army vehicles, and threatening self-immolation to demand the release of their leaders. Security forces responded with tear gas to disperse the crowds, as the state government imposed a five-day internet blackout to curb inflammatory content.
The chaos erupted hours after the NIA detained Kanan Singh and four others, including Volen and Marcus, in a crackdown targeting the militia’s alleged involvement in serious crimes, including the kidnapping of a Deputy Superintendent of Police and arms theft from police armories. Enraged Arambai Tenggol members, joined by Meitei civilians and Meira Paibi women protesters, took to the streets, setting fire to public property and engaging in sporadic gunfire against security forces in Imphal East and West districts. At least three security personnel and several civilians were injured in the clashes, with reports of vandalism and road blockades across the city.
Arambai Tenggol cadres have threatened to self-immolate following the arrest of their NIA-wanted army chief, Kanan, along with four senior members, including Volen and Marcus. Several injuries have reportedly occurred due to alleged police brutality during the crackdown.… pic.twitter.com/5Xai4ds18N
— Maj Digvijay Singh Rawat, Kirti Chakra (@Dig_raw21) June 7, 2025
“They threatened to burn themselves alive if their leaders aren’t freed by morning,” a senior police official told reporters, requesting anonymity. “We’re dealing with a volatile situation, but our forces are acting with restraint to restore order.”
The Manipur Police and CRPF intensified combing operations to apprehend additional miscreants, while the Army bolstered its presence in sensitive areas. The state government, already grappling with ethnic strife between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, suspended internet services across Manipur for five days to prevent the spread of misinformation fueling the unrest.
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Members of Meitei community pelting stones on CRPF and army vehicle after arrest of Arambai Tengol militant Chief in Imphal by NIA. He was wanted in multiple NIA cases. #manipur #imphal pic.twitter.com/g74rsgVSqv
— Global__Perspectives (@Global__persp1) June 7, 2025
Under political patronage, Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei militia formed in 2020, has grown into a formidable force accused of orchestrating attacks on Kuki-Zo communities and looting police armories during the ethnic conflict that began in May 2023. The group, led by figures like Korounganba Khuman, enjoys significant support among sections of the Meitei community but faces allegations of operating as a “parallel government” in Imphal. The NIA’s ongoing probe into the militia’s activities has heightened tensions, with Kuki-Zo groups accusing the state of selective inaction against Arambai Tenggol.
READ: Arambai Tenggol Leader Arrested in Imphal; Protests, Clashes Erupt
Social media posts on X reflect deep divisions, with some users alleging political motives behind the unrest, pointing to the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s resignation. Others condemned the militia’s actions, calling for stronger central intervention to address the state’s spiraling violence.
As Imphal remains on edge, authorities have urged calm and warned of strict action against those inciting violence. The situation underscores the fragile security landscape in Manipur, where ethnic and political fault lines continue to threaten stability.
