Unrest again in Manipur! Violence erupted by the arrest of CBI's Arambai Tenggol leader
Violence has erupted once again in Manipur. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Kanan Singh, a key member of Arambai Tengole, from Imphal airport in connection with the 2023 ethnic violence. Following this arrest, violent protests broke out in five districts of Imphal Valley - Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Bishnupur and Kakching from Saturday (7 June 2025) night. Protesters burnt tyres and furniture on the streets, surrounded the airport gate and clashed with security forces. Some attempted self-immolation, while there are reports of firing in Kwakethel. This unrest has once again put the fragile peace of Manipur at risk.
Reason for arrest: The CBI detained Kanan Singh and four other members for criminal activities related to the Manipur violence of May 2023. Kanan Singh was taken to Guwahati, where he will be produced in court. Arambai Tengole, which claims to be a cultural organization of the Meitei community, is accused of being involved in the Meitei-Kuki-Zo violence in 2023. The organization is also accused of armed militia activities, due to which it has come under controversy.
The Manipur government took immediate action in view of the violence that erupted after the arrest. Internet and mobile data services (including VSAT and VPN) were suspended for five days in five districts. A complete curfew has been imposed in Bishnupur and gathering of four or more people has been prohibited. Security forces have been deployed in the violence-hit areas, but the tension is not subsiding. Incidents of firing in Kwakeithel remain a matter of concern, although it is not clear who fired the bullets.
Political response: 25 MLAs and an MP met Governor Ajay Bhalla to protest the arrest and demand the release of the arrested leaders. The governor clarified that the arrest was not made to target Arambai Tengole but it was related to the CBI's personal matter. At the same time, the Congress attacked the central government. He accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of being "insensitive" to the suffering of the people of Manipur.
The organization has called for a 10-day bandh in protest against the arrest, which may further escalate tensions in the state. Locals say that this bandh will affect everyday life and business. President's rule is already in force in Manipur and normal life has come to a standstill due to internet ban and curfew.
Hundreds of people were killed and lakhs displaced in the 2023 Manipur violence. Arambai Tengole is accused of inciting violence, which increased tension between the Meitei and Kuki-Jo communities. The CBI said that due to the unstable law and order situation in Manipur, the cases related to the violence will be heard in Guwahati.
Current situation: There is an atmosphere of violence and unrest in Manipur. Local organizations and communities are demanding the government to restore peace, but the anger of Arambai Tengole's supporters is not subsiding. This situation is posing a serious challenge to the social and political stability of Manipur.