Imphal: The Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei socio-cultural group, has decided to call off its 10-day total shutdown in Manipur with immediate effect. However, the group will persist with democratic forms of agitation until their senior leader, Asem Kanan Singh, is unconditionally released.
The shutdown was imposed on June 7, following widespread protests over Singh’s arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for alleged involvement in “various criminal activities” related to the Manipur violence. The group’s Public Relations Officer, Robin Mangang, condemned the arrest during a press conference, stating that Arambai Tenggol was formed to preserve Manipur’s culture and traditions but was forced to take up arms to defend the state from perceived threats.
Mangang explained that the decision to suspend the shutdown was made considering public appeals and the inconvenience faced by civilians. “Understanding and accepting the various inconveniences caused by the ongoing total shutdown, we have decided to call off the bandh,” he added. Despite lifting the shutdown, the group will continue its agitation through democratic means until Asem Kanan Singh is released.
Arambai Tenggol claims to be a socio-cultural organisation aimed at preserving Manipur’s territorial integrity. However, the group has been accused of participating in and fanning unrest in the state. The organisation’s influence grew amid the conflict between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo tribes, with the latter demanding a separate administration.
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