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**Summary:**

Manipur has seen renewed violence following the arrest of Asem Kanan Singh, the “army chief” of the radical Meitei group Arambai Tenggol (AT). The AT, founded by Manipur’s titular king and Rajya Sabha member Leishemba Sanajaoba, advocates for Meitei nationalism and has been implicated in violence against the Kuki-Zo community. The group gained prominence during the ethnic conflict in May 2023, allegedly receiving support from former Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh. While the imposition of President’s Rule led to some arms surrenders, the AT remains a potent force, claiming to protect Manipuri identity and territorial integrity within India.

**News Article:**

**Manipur Tensions Flare After Arrest of Arambai Tenggol Leader**

**Imphal, Manipur – June 15, 2025** – Violence has resurfaced in Manipur following the arrest of Asem Kanan Singh, the self-proclaimed “army chief” of the Arambai Tenggol (AT), a radical Meitei group. Singh was apprehended on June 7th and subsequently taken to Guwahati for questioning, sparking unrest in the Imphal Valley.

The AT, founded by Rajya Sabha member and titular king of Manipur, Leishemba Sanajaoba, has been a key player in the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The group, known for its nationalist rhetoric and invoking the pre-Hindu Sanamahi faith, claims to protect Meitei land and culture.

During the height of the conflict that erupted in May 2023, AT members were accused of violence, blockades, arms looting, and targeting the Kuki-Zo population. The group allegedly enjoyed the support of former Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh and even functioned as a parallel government. Kuki-Zo organizations hold the AT and Biren Singh responsible for the deaths of over 250 people.

While the imposition of President’s Rule in February led to the surrender of some weapons, the AT remains a significant force. In January 2024, the group summoned MPs and MLAs, including Sanajaoba, forcing them to pledge allegiance to Manipur’s integrity.

The AT’s actions and ideology have drawn comparisons to the controversial Salwa Judum militia in Chhattisgarh. Despite its alleged involvement in violence, the AT maintains that it is defending Manipuri identity and territorial integrity within India. The arrest of Singh has reignited tensions in the already volatile region, raising concerns about further escalation of the conflict.

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