Tensions Rise in Manipur After Meitei Leader’s Arrest; Curfew and Internet Ban Imposed

Prohibitory orders have been imposed in five districts of Manipur’s Imphal Valley after protests erupted over the arrest of Arambai Tenggol, a leader of the Meitei organisation. The state administration has also suspended internet and mobile data services—including VSAT and VPN—for five days starting late Saturday night.

Districts under restrictions include Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching. A curfew has been specifically enforced in Bishnupur, while prohibitory orders and internet blackouts are in place across all five districts.

Protesters in Kwakeithel and Uripok blocked roads by burning tyres and furniture, demanding Tenggol’s release. Authorities fear that social media platforms may be used to circulate inflammatory content, potentially worsening the law-and-order situation.

“Given the prevailing tensions, there is an apprehension that anti-social elements might exploit social media to incite public unrest,” said Home Commissioner N Ashok Kumar in the official order.

Additional security personnel have been deployed to contain the unrest. The situation remains volatile, with the government urging calm.

The unrest comes against the backdrop of a two-year-long ethnic conflict between the Meitei majority and the Kuki-Zo minority community, which has claimed nearly 200 lives and displaced around 50,000 people across the state.