Indian State Imposes Curfew Amid Surge in Violence

• The recent outbreak of violence was sparked by the arrest of members of the Meitei community.
• Angry protesters attacked a police station, set a bus ablaze, and obstructed roads.
• Authorities have imposed a curfew across five districts, including Imphal West.

IMPHAL: In an Indian state marked by ethnic strife, authorities imposed an internet blackout and a curfew after violent protests erupted in response to the arrest of several individuals from a radical group, police reported on Sunday.

For over two years, Manipur in northeast India has witnessed sporadic violence between the predominantly Hindu Meitei majority and the mainly Christian Kuki community, resulting in more than 250 fatalities.

The latest surge in violence occurred on Saturday after news broke about the arrest of five members, including a key commander, of the Arambai Tenggol group, known for its radical stance within the Meitei community.

Outraged mobs, demanding the release of those arrested, stormed a police station, set fire to a bus, and blocked roads in the state capital, Imphal.

In light of the “escalating law and order situation,” police declared a curfew in five districts, including Imphal West and Bishnupur.

“District Magistrates have issued prohibitory orders. We urge the public to comply with these directives,” police stated in an announcement.

The Arambai Tenggol group, accused of instigating violence against the Kuki community, has also called for a 10-day shutdown in various valley districts.

To manage the unrest, the state’s home ministry mandated a five-day suspension of all internet and mobile data services in the affected districts.

Previously, internet access was restricted for months in Manipur during a violent outbreak in 2023, which displaced about 60,000 residents, according to official figures.

Many locals are still unable to return home due to the ongoing tensions.

The conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities is rooted in long-standing disputes over land and employment opportunities.

Rights advocates have criticized local leaders for deepening ethnic divides for political advantage.