Conflicting reports surround the arrest of an Arambai Tenggol chief in Imphal, as violent protests rock the city. The NIA’s move against the influential Meitei militia leader highlights ongoing challenges in curbing armed groups and restoring peace in Manipur.
BY PC Bureau
June 8, 2025 – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) reportedly arrested a key leader of the Meitei militia group Arambai Tenggol in Imphal on Saturday, June 7, 2025. The arrest, linked to charges of arms looting, kidnapping, and arson, immediately triggered widespread protests and violent clashes in Manipur’s capital, reigniting ethnic tensions in the strife-torn state.
Hundreds of Meitei youths, believed to be Arambai Tenggol supporters, took to the streets, pelting stones at Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Indian Army vehicles, setting public property ablaze, and clashing with security personnel. Sporadic firing was reported in parts of Imphal, though no casualties were confirmed at the time of reporting. Security forces responded with tear gas and minimal force to disperse the mobs.
Conflicting Reports on Identity
Sources identified Arambai Tenggol self-styled army chief Kanan Singh was the one who was arrested aalong with four others. The lack of official statements has fueled speculation and confusion regarding the detainee’s precise identity.
Allegations and Arambai Tenggol’s Role
Regardless of the identity, authorities allege the arrested militant was involved in multiple criminal acts, including the snatching of thousands of weapons from state armories since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023, the kidnapping of an individual from Assam’s Cachar district, and orchestrating arson attacks. Khuman, if he is indeed the arrested leader, has been under NIA scrutiny since at least November 2024, implicated in cases of armed rioting, criminal conspiracy, and UAPA violations for allegedly leading groups in attacks on police and looting armories on November 1, 2023.
#Manipur
Arambai Tenggol leader who is one of the most wanted persons in the @NIA_India list, has been reported to be arrested. AT cadres have threatened to k!ll all @manipur_police members.
We appreciate @NIA_India for their efforts.#NoSaint_EverAte_Meat#EidMubarak
Trump pic.twitter.com/d15Cb3N6do— David 𝐊𝐮𝐤𝐢 (@KipsKuki) June 7, 2025
Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei militia group founded in 2020 by Manipur’s titular king and BJP Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba, who remains its chairman, has been a central and polarizing player in Manipur’s ongoing ethnic conflict. Previously a socio-cultural outfit, it transformed into a radical armed militia, accused by Kuki-Zo groups of fueling violence, extortion, assaults, and targeted attacks. Its estimated membership ranges from 2,000 to 60,000 members.
Recent Controversies and Broader Implications
The group has been involved in several high-profile incidents, including hoisting the Meitei “Salai Taret” flag atop Shirui Peak in the Naga-majority Ukhrul district in May 2025, which drew widespread condemnation. In February 2025, the group partially complied with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla’s ultimatum to surrender looted weapons, but critics note thousands remain unrecovered.
The ethnic violence in Manipur since May 2023 has claimed over 260 lives and displaced nearly 70,000 people. Rooted in disputes over land rights, political representation, and Meitei demands for Scheduled Tribe status, the conflict sees Arambai Tenggol positioned as a defender of Meitei interests, often clashing with Kuki-Zo groups and other militant outfits.
Arambai Tenggol (Meitei Militia) Chief arrested from Imphal town, protesters have fired upon and burnt public properties in retaliation. He was in NIA list of wanted for snatching police arms from police station and other arson activities including Kidnapping of DYSP of Manipur… pic.twitter.com/jZxJCiRRjQ
— Maj Digvijay Singh Rawat, Kirti Chakra (@Dig_raw21) June 7, 2025
This latest arrest underscores the central government’s persistent efforts to curb militia activities and recover looted weapons in a state now under President’s Rule following former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s resignation in late 2024. However, the violent backlash highlights the delicate balance authorities must navigate amidst deep ethnic mistrust.
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As Imphal remains tense with increased security patrols, the fallout from this arrest risks further complicating ongoing peace efforts. Analysts warn that without addressing the root causes of the conflict—land disputes, political marginalization, and militia proliferation—Manipur risks spiraling into deeper chaos. Residents brace for uncertainty as the situation continues to unfold.
