Why Manipur is Aflame Again: Protesters Target Police, International Border Towns Feel the Heat

KKN Gurugram Desk | Tensions exploded once more in Manipur this weekend, particularly in Imphal East and West. The spark? Rumors of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) detaining five volunteers, including a commander, from the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol. Although no official confirmation has surfaced, locals say the arrests took place early Saturday (around 2:30 AM). The city erupted into violent protests demanding their release—and police fired warning shots to disperse angry crowds.

Internet Blackout Declared for Five Districts

To stall further unrest, the state government suspended internet and mobile data services from 11:45 PM on June 7 for five days. Impacted areas include:

• Imphal West

• Imphal East

• Thoubal

• Bishnupur

• Kakching

Authorities cited fears of fake news and misinformation fueling violence, making the shutdown a precautionary measure.

Protests and Police Firing in Overspill

By evening, protesters gathered in the heart of Imphal, blocking major roads and burning tires and old furniture in localities like Kwakeithel and Uripok. They demanded the immediate release of the alleged detainees. An upsurge in tension prompted police to open fire, reporting injuries to two journalists and one civilian.

🇲🇲 Moreh Border Town Remains on High Alert

On the Myanmar border, the town of Moreh (in Tengnoupal district) was also tense. Locals protested the rumored arrest of a man from the Kuki-Zo community. Though the demonstration remained peaceful, authorities placed the town on high alert. A video surfaced of Rajya Sabha MP Lesemba Sanajaoba confronting senior police officers, stating that recent violence resurrects instability, and warning:

“We placed ourselves under arrest before. Arrest me again—you won’t restore peace this way.”

How This Blow-Up is Tied to Prolonged Ethnic Tensions

Manipur has been simmering under ethnic disputes for months. The Meitei–Kuki/Meitei–Naga conflicts reignited in May 2023 and have since evolved into night raids, arson, and civilian casualties. Despite security deployments, violence remains sporadic.

The arrest rumors hit a nerve—especially within Meitei communities—suggesting continued distrust of law enforcement and rising public anger.

Security Measures & Curfews Imposed

With unrest spreading, authorities quickly imposed:

• Complete curfew in Bishnupur district

• Heavy security deployment in Imphal East and West

• Internet shutdown in five districts for public safety

The curfew aims to contain the situation until NIA confirms whether the alleged arrests reflect government action or rumor.

Public Reaction and Viral Accounts

Videos circulating on social media—though limited by net restrictions—show crowds chanting for the release of Arambai Tenggol volunteers. In Moreh, Sanajaoba’s confrontation with police officers highlighted elected officials’ anxieties and the fragile grip on law and order.

Now, all eyes are on how Manipur’s political leadership, central agencies, and civil society will address renewed fear and unrest.

1. Ethnic violence in the Northeast, already ongoing for nearly two years, shows no sign of resolution.

2. Internet shutdowns raise questions about governance, freedom of speech, and emergency protocols.

3. Border town crisis in Moreh reverberates against backdrop of India-Myanmar relations.

4. Tribal-MEite public sentiment drives current friction, with officials accused of deep-rooted bias.

Manipur needs more than curfews—it needs dialogue, judicial clarity on arrests, and robust peace-building rooted in public trust.