Tension gripped the Manipur capital on Saturday (June 7) night following widespread protests over reports of the apprehension of a leader from the Meitei outfit, Arambai Tenggol.

The unrest led authorities to impose prohibitory orders in all five valley districts, while Bishnupur district has been placed under total curfew, news agency PTI reported.

Angry demonstrators took to the streets in Imphal West, blocking roads in Kwakeithel and Uripok by burning tyres and furniture, demanding the release of the detained leader. Sporadic clashes between protesters and security forces were reported, and in Khurai Lamlong (Imphal East), a bus was set on fire by the agitated mob.

Amid escalating tension, additional central security personnel were deployed along critical routes leading to the Raj Bhavan. Gunshots were reportedly heard in Kwakeithel, although the source of the firing remains unclear.

In response to the volatile situation, the Imphal West district magistrate issued an order invoking Section 163(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), prohibiting the assembly of five or more persons and the carrying of weapons, stones, or other potentially harmful items. A similar order in Imphal East bars residents from stepping out between 10 pm on June 10 and further notice, under Section 163(1) of the BNSS.

Meanwhile, unverified rumours that the arrested leader was to be flown out of Manipur sparked further outrage. Protesters gathered at the Tulihal airport gate, gheraoed the area, and camped overnight on the road to block any attempt to transport the detainee out of the state.

In a dramatic turn, several members of Arambai Tenggol staged symbolic protests by pouring petrol over themselves, underscoring the charged atmosphere in the state.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as tensions remain high across the Imphal valley.