State police have confirmed that a Meitei group leader arrested recently was formerly a head constable dismissed from service. The arrest adds another layer to the unfolding complexities in Manipur’s conflict, where allegations of rogue actors influencing community tensions have grown.
According to senior officers, the man was involved in “unauthorized and unlawful activities” connected to a local Meitei group accused of inciting violence in sensitive areas of the Imphal Valley.
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Leader Had a Troubled Past in the Police Force
The individual arrested had served as a head constable in the Manipur Police before being removed from duty several years ago due to disciplinary violations. “His dismissal followed an internal inquiry into charges of misconduct,” said an officer involved in the case.
After his removal, the man reportedly became associated with a hardline Meitei outfit operating under the radar during the height of ethnic clashes. Authorities said he used his knowledge of police protocols to evade scrutiny and organize illegal gatherings in volatile zones.
Police Tighten Crackdown on Rogue Groups
Manipur Police stated that the arrest is part of a larger crackdown on fringe groups contributing to unrest. “We are identifying individuals, regardless of their background, who are instigating violence or disturbing communal harmony,” said DGP Rajiv Singh.
The Meitei group leader arrested had been under surveillance for some time. Intelligence inputs indicated that he was mobilizing youth and circulating inflammatory material on social media. Officials claimed that he also tried to pass off his past association with the police to gain credibility among locals.
Charges Include Incitement and Arms Possession
The arrested individual faces multiple charges including incitement to violence, conspiracy, and illegal possession of arms. Police recovered a country-made weapon, propaganda material, and mobile phones used for encrypted communication.
Authorities believe that the group was attempting to rebuild an armed network within select districts. “This wasn’t just street-level disruption,” said a source. “They were trying to exert control over certain neighborhoods through fear.”
Community Divisions Further Strained
The arrest has stirred political reactions. Some Meitei community groups have demanded transparency in the investigation, while others expressed concern about the presence of radical elements.
Meanwhile, Kuki civil society groups renewed their appeal for stronger central monitoring, claiming that local law enforcement continues to struggle with neutrality. In this tense backdrop, the Meitei group leader arrested case has reignited debates about the politicization of security forces and vigilante policing.
Government Urges Calm Amid Investigation
The Manipur government has asked residents not to jump to conclusions as the investigation continues. “We urge all communities to maintain peace,” said Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. “The state will act against anyone—regardless of religion, caste, or community—who tries to destabilize peace.”
The chief minister acknowledged that rogue elements exist within all communities and that justice would be served without bias.
Opposition Seeks Clarity and Accountability
Opposition leaders have demanded greater accountability and questioned how a dismissed police officer was able to operate so freely. Congress MLA K. Meghachandra said, “This arrest shows that some former insiders are exploiting the conflict for personal or political gain. The state must explain how such networks are allowed to flourish.”
Left-leaning parties have also accused the state government of selective enforcement, highlighting that several complaints about attacks on minority communities remain unaddressed.
Security Forces on High Alert
In the wake of the arrest, security forces have intensified area domination patrols and are monitoring known hotspots closely. The arrest has reportedly led to more leads, and further action is expected in the coming days.
Military and paramilitary presence in the valley has also been stepped up, particularly in Imphal East and Thoubal districts, where the group is believed to have had supporters.
The Meitei group leader arrested case underlines the challenges that Manipur continues to face amid deep-seated ethnic tension. As police pursue further investigations, the state remains on edge.
While the arrest has provided a breakthrough in understanding some of the players behind recent disruptions, it also highlights the urgent need for institutional reforms, community outreach, and unbiased law enforcement in the conflict-ridden region.
