Manipur Tensions: Protesters Pour Petrol On Head, Internet Shut
Fresh violence has erupted in Manipur after the CBI arrested Meitei leader Asem Kanan, deepening tensions between Meitei and Kuki communities.
ISH News has been regularly covering the Manipur conflict — from the beginning of ethnic violence to internet bans, protests, and government action. If you’ve missed our earlier reports, check the links in the description.
Now, here’s the latest.
Manipur is once again in trouble. On 7 June 2025, fresh violence broke out in Imphal after the CBI arrested Asem Kanan, leader of the Arambai Tenggol group, along with four others.
The group is connected to the Meitei community and was involved in the 2023 ethnic clashes. Kanan, a suspended police commando, is accused of using his police links for illegal work. He was arrested from Imphal Airport and taken to Guwahati for further legal process. The CBI said they acted on orders from the Supreme Court.
After the news spread, protests began. In Imphal West, people set fire to buses and tyres, blocked roads, and clashed with police. Two journalists, a civilian, and a 13-year-old boy were injured. Some young men even poured petrol on themselves, threatening suicide.
Many from the Meitei community are angry. They believe the government is only arresting Meitei leaders and ignoring crimes by the Kuki community. One protester said, “We helped during the floods. Now we are being punished. We’ll take our lives.”
In response, the government took emergency steps:
- Curfew in Bishnupur
- Internet banned for 5 days in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching
A government notice said this was to stop social media misuse.
Meanwhile, Arambai Tenggol announced a 10-day state-wide shutdown, demanding the release of their leaders. Women’s groups also warned local MLAs to return to Manipur by 10 June or face action.
A group of MLAs from different parties (BJP, NPP, and Congress) met the Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and asked for peace efforts. The Governor held a meeting with police and army officers.
Political Reactions:
- BJP MLA L. Ibomcha: Kanan’s arrest is linked to a personal case.
- Congress MLA Okram Surjakumar: These arrests have increased chaos. People need clear information and peace.
Arambai Tenggol says it is a cultural group, but Kuki tribes say it is a radical militia that attacked their villages.
Ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities has been going on since May 2023. Over 260 people have been killed and around 50,000 displaced.
In Moreh, a Kuki town near the Myanmar border, protests broke out after another arrest related to the killing of a police officer. Two buses, a police jeep, and CCTV cameras were destroyed. Security is now high at important places like Imphal Airport, Palace Compound, and Tiddim Road.
The state is on edge. People are angry and feel unheard.
Will these arrests bring justice or make things worse?
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