Protests erupted in Imphal, Manipur, on Saturday night, June 7, 2025, following reports of the arrest of a member of the Meitei organization Arambai Tenggol. Demonstrators took to the streets in areas like Kwakeithel and Uripok, setting fire to tires and old furniture to express their discontent and demand the immediate release of the arrested individual.

The identity of the arrested Arambai Tenggol member and the specific charges against them remain unclear, as officials have not released an official statement. The situation prompted the deployment of additional security forces to the affected areas in an effort to restore and maintain order.

Adding to the tension, a video circulating online purportedly shows BJP Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba addressing security personnel. In the video, Sanajaoba is heard questioning the rationale behind the arrest and its potential impact on peace efforts. He said, "We tried very hard to bring peace. If you do such a thing, how will peace come? You arrest me along with the MLA I am here with".

This recent incident is not the first time that arrests of Arambai Tenggol members have sparked protests in Manipur. In February 2025, similar demonstrations occurred after the arrest of village volunteers believed to be associated with the group. Those protests, largely led by Meira Paibis, involved the burning of tires and the closure of shops and markets in various parts of Imphal. At that time, protesters argued that the arrested individuals were acting to protect their communities in the absence of adequate state security.

The Arambai Tenggol is a Meitei organization and has been under scrutiny amidst the ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur. The current protests highlight the complexities of the situation and the deep-seated grievances within the region. The state government had previously urged the voluntary surrender of illegal weapons, with Governor Ajay Bhalla appealing to the youth to contribute to peace by turning in looted arms.