Violence in Imphal over Arambai Tenggol leader's alleged apprehension; internet cut, several injured

Tensions escalated in Imphal, Manipur, late on the night of June 8 after reports emerged that a key leader, among five of the Meitei outfit Arambai Tenggol had been apprehended by security forces. 
 

The incident triggered widespread protests across the city, with several demonstrators sustaining injuries.

In response to the unrest, internet and mobile data services, including VSAT and VPN connections, were suspended across five valley districts - Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching. The suspension was aimed at curbing the spread of misinformation and inflammatory content on social media.

According to officials, prohibitory orders have also been imposed in these districts to prevent further escalation.

Protesters took to the streets late Saturday night in various parts of Imphal West, particularly in Kwakeithel and Uripok, where they burned tyres and unused furniture to block major roads. Members of Arambai Tenggol demanded the immediate release of the arrested leader, shouting slogans such as “We are civilians, not terrorists” and “Release our leader or arrest us all.”

In a disturbing turn, some protesters reportedly attempted self-immolation as an extreme act of defiance against the central government’s action.

Security forces responded with tear gas shells to disperse the increasingly agitated crowd. The protests brought parts of the city to a standstill, causing severe traffic disruptions and sparking panic among residents.

A statement issued by N. Ashok Kumar, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home), said the internet shutdown was necessary due to fears that “anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech, and hate video messages to incite public passion,” which could worsen the already volatile situation.