​Manipur remains tense, ex-CM Biren in Delhi for talks

Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Monday appealed for calm and unity at a time when the state is at a “crucial stage”.

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Speaking at the Imphal airport before leaving for Delhi to brief central leaders on the escalating crisis in the state, he said: "I urge all, including mothers and brothers, to be very careful in what they do and say. We must work together, leave all violence behind, and not act based on emotions."

The state has been rocked by violent protests since Saturday following the arrest of Meitei organisation Arambai Tenggol leader Kanan Singh and four others. Overnight, demonstrators held torchlight processions, set fire to a government building, and clashed repeatedly with security forces despite prohibitory orders in place.

Clashes ​w​ere reported from various parts of Imphal, including Kwakeithel, Singjamei, Wangkhei, Yairipok and Khurai. The police resorted to firing tear gas shells and rubber bullets to disperse the mob. Protesters blocked roads with soil mounds and burnt tyres, causing widespread disruption and smoke-filled streets across the city.

In a significant act of arson, the Sub-Divisional Collector (SDC) Office at Yairipok Tulihal was set ablaze, resulting in partial destruction and loss of official records. The police have launched investigations to identify those responsible and have increased security measures to prevent further unrest.

The unrest has deepened as women’s groups also joined the protests, holding torchlight processions demanding the immediate formation of a government in the state, which remains under President’s rule following the resignation of Singh in February.

Prohibitory orders have been imposed in several key districts — Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching — and internet and mobile services, including VPNs and VSAT, have been suspended since Saturday night to curb the spread of misinformation and maintain order.

Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla convened a security review meeting on Sunday, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities that erupted in May 2023 has so far claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands.