Tension Escalates in Manipur Violence: Internet Suspended, Curfew Imposed Amid Crackdown on Arambai Tenggol Leader

Imphal, June 8, 2025 – In a fresh wave of unrest tied to the ongoing Manipur violence, authorities have clamped down on communication and movement in the state’s volatile regions following the arrest of a key leader of the Meitei outfit, Arambai Tenggol. With tensions running high, the government has enforced an indefinite internet suspension and a strict curfew across Imphal and Bishnupur districts to maintain public order and prevent escalation.

This renewed turbulence marks yet another chapter in the prolonged crisis of Manipur violence, which has plagued the northeastern state for over a year. The arrest has sparked sharp reactions among local communities, prompting security forces to heighten alert levels to avert any retaliatory actions.

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Trigger Point: Arrest of Arambai Tenggol Leader

Security forces launched a late-night operation that resulted in the detention of a prominent leader of the Arambai Tenggol group. According to officials, the arrest was made based on intelligence inputs linking the individual to a series of recent violent incidents across Imphal Valley. While the identity of the leader has not been publicly disclosed, the action has been seen as a decisive yet sensitive move given the deep-rooted sentiments associated with the group among Meitei youths.

The Arambai Tenggol, a controversial Meitei organization, has frequently found itself at the center of the Manipur violence, often accused of instigating unrest and ethnic confrontations. The group, however, maintains that it exists to protect Meitei interests amid the fragile ethnic landscape of the state.

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Curfew and Internet Suspension to Prevent Further Manipur Violence

To preempt any backlash from the community or flare-up of communal tensions, authorities wasted no time in implementing an indefinite curfew in Imphal and Bishnupur districts. This move was soon followed by the suspension of mobile internet and data services across the state, a preventive measure often used during high-tension situations in Manipur.

State government officials emphasized the need for these restrictions to ensure peace and safety. “Given the sensitivity of the situation and the history of mob mobilizations during such periods, the curfew and internet blackout are necessary steps,” a senior police officer stated.

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Public Reactions: Anxiety and Anger Amidst Uncertainty

The sudden clampdown has left the public in a state of confusion and anxiety. Markets shut down abruptly, schools and offices remain closed, and roads are deserted. Many residents are struggling to access basic services due to the communication blockade, reigniting concerns about the state’s long-term stability.

While some local groups have called for restraint and dialogue, others have accused the government of targeting Meitei organizations unfairly, further fanning the flames of the Manipur violence narrative that continues to dominate the region.

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Ethnic Divide Deepens: Meitei-Kuki Tensions Still Unresolved

At the heart of the ongoing Manipur violence lies the unresolved conflict between Meitei and Kuki communities. Despite efforts from both the state and central governments, peace talks have yielded limited results. The recent crackdown on Meitei activists is likely to widen the gap further.

Observers fear that without a credible and inclusive political dialogue, such incidents will continue to derail any attempts toward reconciliation. The need for a broader peace-building framework is more urgent than ever, especially as mutual mistrust deepens between the two communities.

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Call for Intervention and Peace

Civil society organizations, church leaders, and community elders are now urging both the government and militant outfits to pursue a peaceful path. Many have called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to personally intervene to broker talks between warring communities.

“There can be no military solution to a deeply social and ethnic conflict like Manipur violence. What we need is trust, representation, and a roadmap to peace,” said a local human rights activist in Imphal.

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Security on High Alert as Situation Remains Fragile

Security forces have been deployed in large numbers across sensitive zones. Additional paramilitary troops have been stationed at strategic points, and night patrolling has intensified. Authorities have assured the public that all steps are being taken to prevent any outbreak of violence.

However, the situation remains fragile. With emotions running high, especially among Meitei youths, and public gatherings being banned, any small incident could serve as a flashpoint. Community leaders are appealing for calm and urging people not to fall prey to rumors.

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Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Manipur

The current developments are a stark reminder that Manipur violence is far from over. Arrests, curfews, and internet bans may bring temporary order, but they do not address the core issues fueling the unrest. Only a committed, long-term approach involving all ethnic groups and civil society can pave the way for lasting peace in this troubled state.

Until then, Manipur continues to teeter on the edge, with its citizens paying the price for a conflict that demands urgent national attention.