Imphal: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Kanan Singh, a leader of the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol, in connection with the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence. Singh was arrested at Imphal Airport on June 7 and brought to Guwahati on June 8. The CBI’s action follows directives from the Supreme Court of India, which had entrusted the agency with the probe into Manipur’s communal flare-ups.
The accused is alleged to be involved in a series of criminal acts linked to the widespread violence that gripped the state two years ago. After his arrest, Singh was flown to Guwahati, where he is expected to be produced before a competent court for police remand. His family has been formally informed of his detention.
The arrest sparked overnight protests and violence across five districts, leading to a dramatic escalation in tensions. A 25-member delegation of MLAs and one Member of Parliament met with Governor Ajay Bhalla to register their discontent and call for urgent intervention. The delegation expressed alarm over the sudden breakdown of order, citing public panic, road blockades, and spontaneous market shutdowns.
Authorities have invoked Section 144, banning gatherings of more than four individuals in several districts, while a total curfew has been imposed in Bishnupur district to prevent further escalation. Internet and mobile data services have been suspended in affected areas to control the spread of misinformation. The Manipur government has appealed for restraint and cooperation, emphasizing that the law will take its course.
Congress MLA Okram Surjakumar criticized the administration for lacking transparency, while BJP MLA Kh Ibomcha defended the government’s stance, stating that Singh’s arrest stems from a CBI-led investigation. Ibomcha added that the other four individuals detained were being verified and would be released if found unrelated to the case.
Arambai Tenggol has declared a 10-day bandh starting June 8 in response to Singh’s arrest. The situation turned violent on the night of June 7, with clashes between the group and security forces, resulting in multiple injuries and significant traffic paralysis. Security personnel resorted to tear gas shelling to disperse crowds, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely with reinforcements deployed to sensitive areas.
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