Chaos grips Imphal as Arambai Tenggol cadres run amok, firing on security forces and threatening self-immolation following the arrest of their leaders. Curfews are now in place, and internet services suspended to control the spiraling unrest.
BY PC Bureau
June 8, 2025 – Authorities in Manipur have imposed stringent curfews in Imphal West and Bishnupur districts following escalating law and order challenges, effective from June 7, 2025. The measures were triggered by widespread violence, including riots and firing incidents, after the arrest of senior Arambai Tenggol leaders, contributing to significant unrest.
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.
“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.
— Manipur Police (@manipur_police) June 7, 2025
In Imphal West, District Magistrate Dr. Nivedita Lairenlakpam issued an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, effective from 6:00 PM on June 7. The curfew was imposed due to a serious breach of peace, public tranquility, and potential danger to lives and properties, exacerbated by the violent acts of Arambai Tenggol cadres. The order prohibits the assembly of five or more persons and bans carrying weapons, superseding a prior directive dated April 30, 2025. Essential services are exempted, with permissions required for emergencies.
In Bishnupur, District Magistrate Pooja Elangbam revoked an earlier curfew relaxation, reimposing a total curfew from 11:00 PM on June 7 until further notice under the same legal provision. The decision was driven by a deteriorating law and order situation linked to the same unrest, with exemptions for essential services such as health, education, and emergency response teams.
— Manipur Police (@manipur_police) 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 has registered cases against its leaders, including Khuman, for serious offenses such as looting weapons from the 1st Manipur Rifles Battalion on November 1, 2023, and the abduction and assault of police officers.
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.
Both districts are on high alert as authorities work to restore order. Citizens are urged to stay indoors and cooperate with enforcement measures to ensure public safety amidst the ongoing turmoil. The situation underscores the fragile security landscape in Manipur, where ethnic and political fault lines continue to threaten stability.
