Arambai Tenggol Arrest: Manipur Unrest Deepens as Protesters Pour Petrol Over Themselves; Prohibitory Orders Imposed in Five Districts

Tensions continue to escalate in Manipur following the arrest of a prominent leader of the Meitei outfit Arambai Tenggol, triggering widespread protests and dramatic scenes of unrest across the Imphal valley. In a symbolic but deeply alarming move, several members of the outfit poured petrol over themselves, demanding the immediate release of their leader.

The volatile situation prompted authorities to impose prohibitory orders in five key districts—Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching. In addition, internet and mobile data services, including VSAT and VPN access, have been suspended in these regions to prevent further mobilization and the spread of misinformation.

Over the weekend, furious protesters took to the streets in various parts of Imphal. Tyres and old furniture were set ablaze in areas like Kwakeithel and Uripok, leading to intense clashes with security personnel. The unrest reached a new level of intensity when a mob set fire to a public bus in Khurai Lamlong in Imphal East, escalating fears of further violence.

Security measures have been significantly tightened, especially around sensitive locations like the Raj Bhavan. Additional central forces have been deployed to maintain order and protect vital infrastructure. Roads leading to the Governor’s residence have been fortified to prevent any breach.

According to an official order from the Imphal West district magistrate, the arrest has led to a serious breach of peace, posing a grave threat to public safety and property. Citing unlawful activities by anti-social elements, the order invoked provisions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), banning the gathering of five or more people and the carrying of weapons or potentially dangerous objects.

In Imphal East, a stricter curfew has been enforced. Residents have been prohibited from stepping out of their homes from 10 PM on Saturday until further notice. Authorities are on high alert as sporadic gunshots were heard in Kwakeithel, although it remains unclear who was responsible for the firing.

Protesters have also gheraoed the Tulihal airport gate in Imphal, blocking access roads to prevent any attempt to transport the arrested leader out of the state. Their presence near the airport underscores the level of coordination and determination among the demonstrators.

Police officials confirmed that all necessary preventive measures are in place, but the situation remains tense and fluid. The state administration is urging calm, but given the volatile atmosphere and widespread public outrage, the path to restoring peace in Manipur appears increasingly complex.

This growing crisis has once again brought national attention to the fragile socio-political fabric of the northeastern state, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue, de-escalation, and community trust-building measures.