News Brief
Violent Protests Rock Manipur After Meitei Leader's Arrest By CBI
Protests in Manipur (Representative image)
Manipur continues to simmer with fresh waves of unrest following the arrest of Arambai Tenggol leader Kanan Singh and four others, as torchlight processions, roadblocks, and clashes erupted across the valley districts.
Despite prohibitory orders and a complete internet blackout, protesters torched the Sub-Divisional Collector’s office in Yairipok Tulihal, set tyres ablaze, and hurled defiance at security forces across Imphal West and Imphal East districts, PTI reported.
Security personnel fired multiple rounds of tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds in areas like Kwakeithel, Singjamei, Wangkhei, and Khurai.
“The situation continues to remain tense with protesters blocking several roads with bamboo sticks,” a senior officer confirmed, noting that key routes like Tiddim Road, leading to the airport, were briefly cleared.
The Central Bureau of Investigation stated that Kanan Singh was apprehended at Imphal Airport on Sunday (8 June) in connection with cases linked to the 2023 ethnic violence. Police have so far remained silent on the identities and charges against the four others.
They claimed to have the backing of 44 legislators. The move, however, sparked fresh rumours, as Speaker Th. Satyabrata left for New Delhi hours later, reportedly to confer with central leadership.
Women’s groups have also joined the protests, demanding an immediate end to President’s Rule, imposed on 13 February after CM N Biren Singh’s resignation. The Manipur Assembly, though not dissolved, remains under suspended animation.
More than 260 people have died and thousands displaced since the Meitei-Kuki violence broke out in May 2023, leaving the state in prolonged turmoil and deep political uncertainty.
