Imphal: Tensions flared once again in Manipur late Saturday night, prompting authorities to suspend internet services in five districts amid fears of escalating violence. The renewed clashes erupted after the arrest of Kanan Singh, a key figure in the Meitei extremist outfit Aarambai Thenggol.

In anticipation of possible unrest spreading through digital platforms, the government swiftly cut off internet access in Imphal, Imphal West, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching districts. Streets in Imphal witnessed chaos as protestors lit tires ablaze and blocked roads, while unconfirmed reports of gunfire were also received from certain pockets of the region.

Home Secretary N. Ashok Kumar stated that the internet shutdown was necessary to curb the spread of inflammatory content and hate speech online that could incite further disorder. The protests reportedly began around 11:45 PM on Saturday night, following an earlier directive by Governor A.K. Bhalla under which members of Aarambai Thenggol had surrendered their weapons to the police.

The Meitei protestors also raised demands for the immediate arrest of leaders from Kuki militant groups, holding them responsible for their role in recent communal disturbances. The unrest was further triggered by the arrest of a Kuki individual from Moreh, in connection with the fatal sniper attack on a police officer in October 2023—a case that had previously sparked protests from the Kuki community as well.

The long-standing ethnic strife between the Meitei and Kuki communities continues to disrupt peace in Manipur. Investigations into multiple riot-related incidents are currently being handled by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). However, sources report that both sides have fiercely resisted any legal action targeting their members, making arrests a highly volatile and sensitive process for law enforcement.