Manipur on edge: 25 MLAs and MP meet governor after Meitei group leader’s arrest sparks violence

In the wake of escalating unrest across five districts of Manipur, a delegation comprising 25 MLAs and one Member of Parliament met with Governor Ajay Bhalla to express deep concern over the overnight violence that followed the arrest of Kanan Singh, a key leader of the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol.

The delegation, cutting across party lines, sought clarification and intervention from the governor amid curfews and communication blackouts. The situation spiraled after Singh’s arrest late last night, which reportedly triggered widespread panic, road blockades, and spontaneous shutdowns in multiple areas.

Authorities have imposed Section 144, restricting the assembly of four or more individuals in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, and Kakching districts, while a total curfew has been enforced in Bishnupur district to restore order.

Congress MLA Okram Surjakumar voiced concerns, stating, “Five of our boys from Arambai Tenggol have been arrested, leading to public unrest and panic. Internet services have been suspended, and the public remains uninformed about the grounds for these arrests. We urged the Governor to ensure transparency if the government chooses to take such sensitive actions.”

BJP MLA Kh Ibomcha, who was also part of the delegation, emphasized the non-hostile stance of the government toward Arambai Tenggol. “We met the Governor to request the release of the detained members. The government recognizes Arambai Tenggol’s contributions during the recent floods. Kanan Singh’s arrest is linked to a CBI investigation, and the other four were detained due to their association with him at the time of the incident. Their verification is underway, and they will be released if found uninvolved.”

Visuals from East and West Imphal this morning depict the aftermath of the overnight violence, with roads blocked, shops shut, and heavy police deployment across sensitive zones.