Escalating Unrest in Manipur: Protests and Clashes Erupt

Violence Erupts in Imphal Valley

Imphal, June 10: On Monday night, fresh protests and violence erupted in the Imphal valley of Manipur as demonstrators ignored prohibitory measures and clashed with security forces across various districts.

This ongoing unrest, now entering its fourth day, was triggered by the recent arrest of A Kanan Singh, a leader of the Arambai Tenggol group, by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Officials reported that confrontations began in the Khurai area of Imphal East, where security personnel deployed tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd. Similar disturbances were noted in Thoubal district, where protestors demanded the immediate release of their detained leader.

In Imphal West, tensions heightened when unidentified individuals opened fire on CRPF personnel stationed in the Tera area.

An official confirmed that at least seven rounds were fired from small firearms. Security forces attempted a search operation, but protestors hindered their efforts, complicating the situation further.

Gunfire reports also emerged from Yairipok in Bishnupur district, raising concerns about the potential for the conflict to spread.

A particularly violent incident occurred in Nambol, Bishnupur district, where a senior police officer and another personnel were injured while trying to clear roadblocks. The team, led by the district SP, faced significant resistance, leading to injuries and the filing of an FIR against those involved.

Earlier, protestors set up barricades and clashed on major roads and highways. The Kwakkeithel stretch of the airport road became a significant flashpoint, with repeated clashes between security forces and rioters.

Protestors have warned that violence may escalate during the night as tensions continue to rise in the valley's volatile areas.

The Arambai Tenggol group, central to the unrest, has called for a ten-day total shutdown across Manipur in response to A Kanan Singh's arrest. Reports indicate that over 21 individuals have been injured, with numbers likely to increase if the situation remains unresolved.

Security agencies are on high alert, with additional reinforcements deployed to sensitive areas. However, restoring peace in the deeply troubled valley remains a significant challenge amid escalating public anger and targeted violence.