Renewed Unrest in Manipur Amid Protests for Arrested Leaders

Violence Erupts in Manipur's Valley Districts

Imphal, June 8: Fresh clashes broke out on Saturday night across five valley districts in Manipur as demonstrators confronted security forces, demanding the release of detained leaders from the Arambai Tenggol group.

In reaction to the unrest, local authorities quickly enacted prohibitory measures and suspended internet access in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching districts for a duration of five days.

By Sunday morning, the atmosphere remained charged, with increased security around significant sites, including access routes to the Raj Bhavan. Additional central forces were dispatched throughout the state capital to uphold order.

In a directive issued late Saturday, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N Ashok Kumar expressed concerns that “anti-social elements might exploit social media to disseminate images, hate speech, and incendiary video messages, potentially exacerbating the law and order situation.”

In Imphal city, confrontations occurred near Kangla Gate, located just 200 meters from the Raj Bhavan, where protesters clashed with security personnel. Tear gas was deployed to disperse the gathering.

In another incident, a bus was set ablaze by an angry mob at Khurai Lamlong in Imphal East. Reports of gunfire emerged from Kwakeithel, although the identity of the shooters remains unknown. Additionally, a mob vandalized CCTV cameras in the vicinity.

Another point of contention arose at Tulihal Airport, where large crowds assembled following unverified claims that the detained leader might be transported out of the state.

Protesters, including women, obstructed the airport road and even lay down on the ground to thwart any such actions.

In a dramatic display of protest, some members of Arambai Tenggol reportedly doused themselves in petrol in response to the arrests.

At least two journalists were among those injured during the clashes, with accusations of physical aggression from security forces. Arson incidents were reported at three additional locations throughout the Imphal valley.

The situation remains precarious, with officials calling for calm as security operations and investigations are ongoing.