Manipur: Arambai Tenggol’s Shutdown Over Leader’s Arrest Paralyzes Valley Districts

A wave of unrest has gripped Manipur’s valley districts following the arrest of Asem Kanan, a key figure of the influential group Arambai Tenggol, sparking violent protests, a total shutdown, and a strict five-day internet ban.

Tensions erupted late Saturday night after security forces arrested Kanan, identified by Arambai Tenggol members as their "Army Chief." The group swiftly called for a 10-day total bandh, plunging daily life into chaos across Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching districts.

In response, protesters took to the streets in large numbers, particularly in Imphal West’s Kwakeithel and Uripok areas, setting fire to tyres and unused furniture to block roads and confront security personnel. Clashes broke out at multiple sites, with police resorting to tear gas and even live rounds at Tiddim Ground, injuring at least eight protesters who are now receiving treatment at Asian Hospital.

The protests intensified after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) confirmed Kanan’s arrest, stating he was involved in various criminal activities related to the 2023 Manipur violence. The agency flew him from Imphal to Guwahati, where he is expected to be produced before a competent court for police remand. The CBI noted that the arrest is part of a wider probe into last year's unrest, as directed by the Supreme Court. Due to security concerns, the trial has also been shifted to Guwahati.

Despite the CBI’s clarification, public anger continues to mount. Roads across the valley districts are deserted, with all shops, educational institutions, government offices, and transport services shut down under the bandh. Protesters are blocking key highways, cutting off vital inter-district movement. Authorities have deployed security forces to sensitive zones in a bid to maintain order.

In a significant political development, a cross-party delegation of 25 MLAs from BJP, NPP, and Congress met with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Sunday. The leaders demanded clarity and intervention on Kanan’s arrest, urging that he be released in light of the deteriorating situation.

MLA Lokeshwar stated that the Governor confirmed Kanan was arrested by the CBI in a specific case unrelated to his affiliation with Arambai Tenggol. The other four AT members detained during the same operation were held by state police and could be released soon, with no charges currently registered against them.

Meanwhile, sources revealed that Asem Kanan was flown to Delhi earlier today at around 9:30 AM on Indigo flight 6A2008, escalating concern among his supporters.

To prevent the unrest from spiraling, the government has imposed prohibitory orders under CrPC Section 144 in five districts and suspended internet services — including mobile data, VSAT, and VPNs — for five days starting 11:45 PM on June 7.

With the shutdown entering its early phase and public sentiment still volatile, Manipur remains on edge. All eyes are now on how both the state administration and the central investigative agencies handle the unfolding crisis, as the risk of further escalation looms.