Curfew Imposed in Manipur Amid Protests Following Arrest of Meitei Leader

Curfew Enforced in Five Districts of Imphal Valley

In response to protests triggered by the arrest of a leader from the Meitei organization Arambai Tengol, a curfew was imposed late Saturday night across five districts in the Imphal Valley. Bishnupur district has been placed under a complete lockdown.

Demonstrators set fire to tires and old furniture in the middle of the roads in Kwakithal and Uripok, demanding the release of the detained leader. Tensions remained high on Sunday morning.

Security measures have been intensified on roads leading to the Raj Bhavan, with additional deployment of central forces.

In light of the unrest in the northeastern state, an order issued by the district magistrate of Imphal West stated, 'The Superintendent of Police of Imphal West has reported serious violations of public order, potential disturbances, riots, or conflicts, and illegal activities by antisocial elements posing a grave threat to human life and property.'

The order informed the public about restrictions under Section 163(2) of the Indian National Security Code (BNSC), prohibiting gatherings of five or more individuals and carrying sticks, stones, firearms, or sharp weapons.

Clashes occurred between protesters and security forces at various locations in the state capital on Saturday night. An angry mob set a bus ablaze in Khurai Lamlong, located in Imphal East district.

Gunfire was reported in Kwakithal, although it remains unclear who fired the shots. Following unverified reports that the arrested leader might be taken out of the state, protesters surrounded the entrance of Imphal Airport in Tulihal.

They took to the streets near the airport, lying down in the middle of the road to prevent any potential attempts to transport the detained leader out of the state. Meanwhile, members of Arambai Tengol staged a symbolic protest by dousing themselves in petrol against the arrest.