Imphal | June 8, 2025

Tensions have flared once again in Manipur as violent protests swept through parts of the Imphal Valley on Saturday night, prompting the state government to suspend mobile internet services and impose curfews in sensitive areas. The unrest, marked by clashes between demonstrators and security personnel, has plunged the region into uncertainty.

Authorities have announced a five-day suspension of mobile data and internet services across the valley districts — including Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur — to prevent the spread of provocative content and misinformation that could further escalate tensions.

“There is a strong possibility that social media could be used to spread hate messages, disturbing videos, and inciting material,” read an official order issued by Manipur’s Commissioner and Home Secretary. “To prevent potential threats to public safety and property, and to maintain communal harmony, the suspension is essential.”

Curfew and Prohibitory Orders

A full curfew has been clamped down in Bishnupur district, with additional restrictions in place in other districts, barring public gatherings of more than five people. These steps follow a series of violent incidents late Saturday, particularly in Imphal West, where anger erupted over the arrest of five members of Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei community group.

Among the detainees was reportedly a senior commander of the group. Outraged over the arrests, a large crowd gathered outside the Kwakeithel Police Outpost, demanding their release. The protest quickly spiraled into chaos as demonstrators stormed the station. In response, security forces fired several rounds into the air to disperse the crowd.

At least three people were injured, including two journalists, during the confrontation.

Unrest Spreads Beyond Imphal

While most of the violence was centered around Imphal, the ripple effects of the arrests were also felt in Moreh, a border town in the hill district of Tengnoupal. Though no violence was reported there, residents shut down the town in protest over the arrest of a member of the Kuki-Zo community. Located along the Myanmar border, Moreh is now on heightened alert.

No Official Statement Yet

Despite the gravity of the situation, the Manipur state government has not released an official statement regarding the sudden escalation of tensions. The silence has left residents and observers anxious, with many hoping for swift measures to restore peace and dialogue.

As of now, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with heightened security across the affected regions. The coming days will be critical in determining whether calm can be restored or if the cycle of unrest will continue.