Shocking Escalation in Manipur Unrest: Protesters Pour Petrol Over Themselves After Arrest of Meitei Leaders

The fragile situation in Manipur took a disturbing turn on Saturday after protesters, upset by the arrest of five Meitei leaders, staged a dramatic and dangerous protest. Several individuals reportedly poured petrol over themselves in a desperate display of anger and frustration, further intensifying the Manipur unrest. The incident has shocked the nation and brought renewed attention to the ongoing ethnic conflict plaguing the northeastern state.

The Trigger: Arrest of Meitei Leaders

According to local sources, the protest erupted after police arrested five individuals associated with a Meitei organization, allegedly for possessing illegal arms and wearing camouflage uniforms in violation of security norms. Their arrest ignited immediate outrage among the Meitei community, which has been at the heart of the Manipur unrest for over a year now.

The detentions were perceived by many as discriminatory and targeted, leading to spontaneous mass mobilization in the Imphal Valley. Demonstrators quickly gathered near Porompat police station, demanding the immediate release of the arrested men.

Extreme Acts of Protest: Petrol-Pouring Incident

In a shocking act of self-harm, some of the protesters went to the extent of pouring petrol over themselves, threatening self-immolation if their demands were not met. While no self-immolation was ultimately carried out, the act itself was a potent symbol of the level of desperation and emotional turmoil in the community.

Police forces deployed in the area managed to prevent any further escalation, but the situation remains extremely volatile. Authorities are on high alert as fears of retaliation or more widespread violence loom large.

Internet Services Suspended Across Five Districts

In response to the growing unrest, the state government ordered the suspension of internet services in five key districts of the Imphal Valley — Imphal East, Imphal West, Kakching, Thoubal, and Bishnupur — to curb the spread of misinformation and prevent the mobilization of more protests. This move is seen as a preventive step but has also drawn criticism for limiting access to communication during a time of crisis.

The suspension is expected to remain in place for at least five days, depending on how the situation develops. Officials argue that this is a necessary measure to maintain law and order amid the spiraling Manipur unrest.

Underlying Ethnic Tensions Resurface

The arrest and subsequent protests have once again spotlighted the deep ethnic divide between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The Manipur unrest originally erupted in May 2023 following a High Court order regarding the Scheduled Tribe status for the Meitei community. Since then, over 200 lives have been lost and thousands displaced, creating a long-standing atmosphere of fear, mistrust, and resentment.

Despite repeated calls for peace and intervention by the central government, a lasting solution remains elusive. Community leaders from both sides continue to accuse each other of violence and political marginalization, deepening the crisis.

Security Forces on High Alert

Central and state security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas to prevent further escalation. Checkpoints, patrolling, and surveillance have been increased, particularly in and around the Imphal Valley.

Authorities have also appealed to the public to maintain peace and not fall prey to rumors or provocations. However, given the highly charged environment, controlling spontaneous outbursts remains a challenge.

Civil Society Appeals for Dialogue

Several civil society groups and human rights organizations have called for immediate dialogue between the conflicting groups. They emphasize that arrests and crackdowns may temporarily quell unrest but do not address the root causes of the conflict.

They are urging both the state and central governments to step in with a constructive and inclusive approach to bring an end to the persistent Manipur unrest. Without real reconciliation and justice, experts warn that such extreme reactions from the public may continue.

Political Leaders Maintain Silence

As the situation deteriorates, most major political parties have remained conspicuously silent. Critics argue that the lack of decisive political leadership has allowed the Manipur unrest to spiral out of control.

Calls are growing for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to issue statements and visit the affected areas. Meanwhile, local leaders are struggling to control the narrative, with many either blaming external elements or denying responsibility altogether.

Conclusion: A State on the Brink

The recent petrol-pouring protest underscores the emotional and psychological toll that the prolonged Manipur unrest has had on the residents of the state. With no clear resolution in sight, the state teeters on the brink of deeper violence. Only a sincere, inclusive, and empathetic political effort can help pull Manipur back from the edge and restore peace.