Himalaya Harbinger National Bureau.
Fresh tension erupted in Manipur on Tuesday, prompting the deployment of four columns of the Assam Rifles in Imphal East. The move came after the abduction of Additional Superintendent of Police Amit Kumar from his residence, allegedly by cadres of the Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei organization.
The incident unfolded around 7 pm when a group of Arambai Tenggol cadres attacked Kumar’s residence in Wangkhei, Imphal East. The officer, posted in the operations wing of the Manipur Police, had previously arrested six members of the group for their involvement in vehicle theft, triggering the attack.
A Meitei women’s group, Meira Paibis, had protested and blocked roads demanding the release of the arrested individuals. In retaliation, armed cadres linked to Arambai Tenggol ransacked Kumar’s house and damaged at least four vehicles with gunfire.
MK Kulla, the father of the police officer, described the chaotic events, stating, “We tried to talk to the armed men after they entered, but all of a sudden, they started firing at the vehicles and properties. So we had to rush inside and lock ourselves.”
Fearing for his son’s safety, Kulla promptly informed Kumar about the incident. Despite rushing to the scene with his team, Kumar was outnumbered and subsequently abducted by the Arambai Tenggol cadres.
In response, Manipur Police swiftly mobilized forces, launching a successful rescue operation that ensured Kumar’s safe return within hours. The state government sought the assistance of the Army as tensions persisted after the rescue efforts. Four columns of the Assam Rifles were requisitioned and deployed in the area where the abduction occurred.
A spokesperson for the Manipur Police stated, “Our priority is to maintain law and order. We acted promptly, and with the support of the Army, successfully rescued ASP Amit Kumar.”
The region has witnessed escalating violence since May 3, with over 180 casualties reported following a Tribal Solidarity March in the hill districts, protesting the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The Meiteis, constituting 53% of Manipur’s population, predominantly reside in the Imphal Valley, contrasting the tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, who make up 40% and primarily inhabit the hill districts.
