NEW DELHI: Protests erupted in Manipur again after the arrest of key Meitei leader on Saturday with the administration imposing prohibitory orders and suspending internet services in five Imphal valley districts. A video circulating online showed a group of men dressed in black dousing themselves with petrol and threatening self-immolation in a dramatic escalation of tensions after the arrest of Arambai Tenggol leader.The TOI could not independently verify the authenticity of the video.“Violent protests broke out after the arrest of a leader of Arambai Tenggol. Three people have been injured in the clash with agitators and personnel. All preventive measures are in place,” a police officer said.The protesters surrounded the gate of Imphal Airport at Tulihal and took to the streets, blocking a major thoroughfare in an effort to prevent authorities from possibly transferring the detained leader out of the state.Clashes with security forces broke out at multiple locations across the state capital, with a mob torching a bus in Khurai Lamlong area of Imphal East. In a major flashpoint near Kangla Gate—just 200 metres from the Raj Bhavan—security personnel fired multiple rounds of tear gas to disperse the crowd.Multiple gunshots were also heard in Kwakeithel, though it remains unclear who was responsible for the firing.

Internet suspended, prohibitory orders issued

As a precautionary step, authorities have imposed prohibitory orders in the districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching. Additionally, internet and mobile data services—including VSAT and VPN access—have been suspended across these valley regions.“In view of prevailing law and order situation especially in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur districts, there is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate video messages inciting the passion of the public which might have serious repercussions of law and order situation in the state,” an official order said.The district administration has prohibited the gathering of five or more people and banned the possession of sticks, stones, firearms, and sharp weapons under Sub-section 2 of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).In Imphal East and Bishnupur districts, residents have been ordered to remain indoors from 10pm on Saturday until further notice.