Imphal
Normal life came to a standstill across five valley districts in Manipur on Monday due to an indefinite curfew and a 10-day shutdown called by the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol. The shutdown, which began Sunday, was in protest against the arrest of the group’s leader, Ashem Kanan Singh, by central security forces.
To manage the situation, the Manipur government imposed curfews and suspended mobile internet services in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching districts for five days starting Saturday midnight. Singh, a former head constable of Manipur Police, was dismissed from service in March 2025 for criminal involvement, including arms smuggling. He was recently arrested by the CBI.
Following his arrest, widespread protests broke out, particularly in Imphal East and West. Protesters, including women, blocked key roads, burned tyres and old furniture, and clashed with security forces. Around 20 people, including security personnel, were injured in these confrontations. Protesters also set fire to the Sub-Divisional Collector’s office in Yairipok Tulihal, causing damage to official records.
Security forces used tear gas and rubber bullets to control the situation and cleared roadblocks, especially on Tiddim Road near Imphal airport. Some protesters even poured petrol over themselves as a symbolic act of protest.
Meanwhile, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested three insurgents linked to a deadly attack in Moreh last year. In response to the growing unrest, former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and BJP MP Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba traveled to Delhi to brief central leaders. Singh urged the public to maintain peace and act responsibly during these challenging times, emphasizing the importance of unity and avoiding violence.