Tensions Rise in Manipur After Arrest of Arambai Tenggol Member by CBI

Tensions flared across the valley districts of Manipur after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Asem Kanan, a member of the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol, at Imphal airport on Sunday. The arrest, carried out by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of the CBI’s Guwahati unit, has sparked violent protests and widespread unrest in the region.

In a statement, the CBI confirmed that Kanan was taken into custody in connection with multiple criminal cases related to the 2023 Manipur violence. “The arrest was made in accordance with the ongoing investigation ordered by the Supreme Court,” the agency said. “Due to the law-and-order situation in Manipur, the trials have been moved to Guwahati.”

Following his arrest, Kanan was flown to Guwahati, where he will be presented before a competent court for police remand.

Sources in the police indicated that Kanan was detained along with four other members of Arambai Tenggol on Saturday in Imphal. However, the CBI has so far officially confirmed only Kanan’s arrest.

The arrest triggered immediate backlash in Imphal, where hundreds of protesters took to the streets, setting up roadblocks with burning tyres, wooden planks, and debris. In an attempt to control the escalating situation, security forces deployed tear gas, mock bombs, and even live ammunition. A 13-year-old boy sustained serious leg injuries, reportedly caused by a tear gas shell, and was rushed to a nearby hospital.

Between Saturday evening and 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, at least 11 people were reported injured during clashes, and the situation showed no signs of easing.

Heavy security deployments have been made at key points in Imphal, including Palace Compound in Imphal East, and areas such as Keishampat Bridge, Moirangkhom, and the stretch from Tiddim Road to the airport in Imphal West.

On Saturday, Arambai Tenggol announced a 10-day statewide shutdown, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of those arrested.

Meanwhile, a women’s group from Khurai in Imphal East issued a sharp ultimatum, demanding that all state MLAs currently outside Manipur return to Imphal by 6 p.m. on June 10 and form a new government. The group warned that any MLA who fails to comply would not be allowed to re-enter the state.

As of Sunday evening, the atmosphere in the valley remained highly volatile, with tensions running high and security forces on maximum alert.