Social media erupts as critics question how an armed militia leader accused of violence moves freely, while crackdowns continue on other communities in Manipur.
BY PC Bureau/ March 13
Despite a state-wide call for disarmament, Korounganba Khuman, the notorious leader of Arambai Tenggol, continues to roam freely, armed and flanked by heavily armed guards. The group, accused of orchestrating violence, looting weapons, and attacking security forces, remains a contentious presence in Manipur, even under President’s Rule.
A viral video has surfaced showing Korounganba attending a public function—a firearm visibly strapped to his hip—while armed guards escorted him like a VIP. The footage has intensified concerns over law and order in Manipur, with critics questioning the selective enforcement of security measures.
“This video is a slap in the face of law and order in post-President’s Rule Manipur,” said an observer. “How can an armed militia leader move freely while security forces crack down on others?”
If the chief of #ArambaiTenggol can roam freely in public with his well-armed bodyguard, what is the purpose of imposing President’s Rule in Manipur?
While Kuki protesters in the hills have been shot dead, armed militias are allowed to conduct a football tournament in the… pic.twitter.com/nalvIod24I— Sumkawn (@Sumkawn) March 13, 2025
Controversial Meeting with the Governor
Korounganba, frequently seen in military fatigues and carrying multiple weapons, recently made headlines after meeting Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla. The meeting has drawn sharp criticism from Kuki-Zo groups, who accuse the administration of legitimizing a criminal group instead of taking action against them.
“How can a man facing an NIA investigation and accused of heinous crimes walk into Raj Bhavan and meet the Governor as if he were a high-profile political leader?” asked a Kuki-Zo activist.
Adding to the controversy, Arambai Tenggol recently surrendered 300 weapons to the police. However, many were reportedly outdated or non-functional, leading to accusations that the surrender was a symbolic stunt rather than a genuine effort to de-escalate violence.
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Social Media Reactions
The viral video has triggered a flood of reactions on social media:
@Sumkawn: “If the chief of #ArambaiTenggol can roam freely in public with his well-armed bodyguard, what is the purpose of imposing President’s Rule in Manipur? While Kuki protesters in the hills have been shot dead, armed militias are allowed to conduct a football tournament in the valley.”
If the chief of #ArambaiTenggol can roam freely in public with his well-armed bodyguard, what is the purpose of imposing President’s Rule in Manipur?
While Kuki protesters in the hills have been shot dead, armed militias are allowed to conduct a football tournament in the… pic.twitter.com/nalvIod24I— Sumkawn (@Sumkawn) March 13, 2025
@VoiceOfDaHills: “#Manipur The situation in Manipur remains concerning, with reports of ongoing violence and tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The fact that the #ArambaiTenggol C-in-C continues to evade justice and enjoys unchecked freedom, despite an arrest warrant from the @NIA_India, raises questions about the effectiveness of the law enforcement agencies in the region.”
Background on Arambai Tenggol
Arambai Tenggol began as a cultural organization but quickly evolved into a radical militia by 2020. Its influence surged in 2022, with its members accused of looting armories, enforcing blockades, attacking villages, and targeting security forces. The group’s unchecked operations and visible presence despite serious allegations highlight the growing frustrations over government inaction and selective law enforcement in Manipur.
The latest events have further deepened public concern over the government’s handling of militant groups under President’s Rule. Calls for impartial law enforcement and immediate action against armed militias continue to grow.
