Authorities in India's conflict-stricken Manipur state have imposed a curfew and suspended internet services in response to fresh unrest following the arrest of leaders from an ethnic group. Tensions flared after police detained five senior members of Arambai Tenggol, a radical Meitei organization, including its head, Asem Kanan Singh.
Singh was apprehended by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at Imphal airport for alleged involvement in criminal activities tied to the ethnic violence that erupted in 2023. The CBI later transferred him to Guwahati in Assam, citing ongoing instability in Manipur.
Manipur has faced recurring violence since last year due to clashes between the dominant Meitei community and the minority Kuki group, resulting in over 250 deaths and the displacement of thousands. Arambai Tenggol, which presents itself as a social group, holds significant sway within the Meitei population.
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The arrests on June 7 triggered widespread protests, with demonstrators storming a police outpost, torching a bus, blocking roads, and clashing with security forces. Reports indicate a 13-year-old boy was injured when security personnel used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse crowds.
In response to the escalating unrest, the state government shut down mobile internet and data services in five districts for five days, imposed an indefinite curfew in one district, and banned gatherings in several areas. Additionally, Arambai Tenggol announced a 10-day shutdown starting Saturday night.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for failing to restore peace in the troubled region and accused him of neglecting his responsibilities by not visiting the state or engaging with its leaders. The central government had earlier assumed direct control of Manipur after the resignation of the chief minister amid growing criticism.
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On Sunday, a cross-party group of lawmakers met the state governor, with BJP legislator Kh Ibomcha stating they had requested the release of the arrested leaders after police interrogation. The BJP has faced strong condemnation from opposition leaders and human rights groups over its handling of the crisis.
Source: BBC