Imphal: Manipur remains on edge following violent protests triggered by the arrest of a leader from the Meitei organisation Arambai Tenggol.
Authorities have responded by imposing curfews and suspending internet services across five key districts in the Imphal valley—Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching—as a precautionary measure.
Protesters took to the streets late Saturday, burning tyres and furniture in areas such as Kwakeithel and Uripok, demanding the leader’s release.
Clashes erupted between demonstrators and security forces, with a mob setting a bus ablaze in Khurai Lamlong, located in Imphal East.
Tear gas was used to disperse crowds near Kangla Gate, close to the Raj Bhavan.
To maintain order, the government has deployed additional central forces and tightened security around key locations, including the Raj Bhavan.
The Imphal West District Magistrate cited a breakdown in public peace and the threat to lives and property as justification for banning gatherings of five or more people and restricting the carrying of weapons under Section 163(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
Similar curbs were imposed in Thoubal and Kakching, while in Imphal East and Bishnupur, a night curfew was enforced starting at 10 pm on Saturday, continuing until further notice under Section 163(1) of the BNSS.
“Three individuals were injured during clashes between protesters and law enforcement. All necessary preventive steps have been taken,” a police officer confirmed.
In response to concerns about the misuse of social media during the unrest, the Home Department ordered the suspension of internet and mobile data—including VSAT and VPN services—in the five districts from 11:45 pm on Saturday for five days.
The government fears social media may be used to incite violence through inflammatory content.
In a dramatic show of resistance, some Arambai Tenggol members reportedly doused themselves in petrol during symbolic protests.
Protesters also surrounded the Tulihal Airport gate in Imphal, blocking access roads to prevent the leader’s possible transfer out of the state.
Gunshots were reportedly heard in Kwakeithel, but the source remains unconfirmed.
Authorities have warned that violations of the emergency orders will lead to legal consequences.
