The arrest of a leader from the Meitei outfit Arambai Tenggol (AT) by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has triggered a series of reactions, including protests and meetings between Manipur's political figures and the Governor. The CBI arrested Kanan Singh at Imphal Airport on June 8, 2025, for his alleged involvement in criminal activities related to the 2023 Manipur violence.
Following the arrest, a delegation of Manipur MLAs met with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to discuss the situation. According to BJP legislator K. Ibomcha, the delegation was informed that five people were arrested in connection with prior incidents of violence. While the CBI apprehended one individual, Kanan Singh, the state police arrested the other four. The CBI confirmed the arrest and stated that Singh was involved in various criminal activities related to the Manipur violence in 2023. The agency further mentioned that the arrest was made in connection with a case being investigated following the directions of the Supreme Court. Due to the prevailing law and order situation, the trial of the Manipur violence cases has been moved to Guwahati, Assam. Singh has been transported to Guwahati and will be produced before the court for police remand.
News of Singh's arrest led to widespread protests on Saturday night, prompting authorities to impose prohibitory orders and suspend internet services in five Imphal valley districts. The situation remains tense, with public panic, road blockades, and market shutdowns reported across the region. A delegation of approximately 25 MLAs and one Member of Parliament, representing various political parties, met with the Governor to voice their concerns and seek intervention.
According to sources within the Manipur Police, Kanan Singh was a former head constable who was dismissed from service earlier this year due to his involvement in multiple instances of violence. He had alleged ties with Arambai Tenggol and was suspended before his dismissal. Singh has reportedly been involved in cases of murder and extortion and was handed over to the CBI in connection with the abduction of a senior police officer last year.
The Arambai Tenggol, initially founded in 2020 as a cultural body, has transformed into a radical armed outfit and faces allegations of violence, looting, and arson attacks. The group had previously summoned MLAs for a meeting at Kangla Fort in January 2024. In February 2024, an additional superintendent of police was allegedly thrashed and abducted by members of Arambai Tenggol, further escalating tensions between the group and law enforcement.
The CBI's investigation into the Manipur violence cases is ongoing, following the Supreme Court's directives. The arrest of Kanan Singh and the subsequent reactions underscore the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the ethnic tensions and ongoing investigations in the state.
