Imphal: Several ministers and MLAs in Manipur are likely to resign as the northeastern state continues to be on the boil following the killing of six hostages earlier this week. A total curfew has been imposed in Imphal until further notice after the state witnessed fresh episodes of violence triggered by the death of the hostages in the Jiribham district. On Saturday, a violent mob targeted the residences of Chief Minister Biren Singh and at least two state ministers and three MLAs in Imphal while the state administration appealed to protesters, and demonstrators to maintain calm. The latest episode of violence erupted after the death of six people belonging to the Meitei community including 3 women and 3 children were taken hostage allegedly by the Kuki tribe in Manipur’s Jiribam district.

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• Amid the violence in Imphal, several MLAs and ministers are expected to resign. As per reports, three MLAs – T Robindro, Th Radheshyam, and Paonam Brojen are likely to resign.
• The residences of Health Minister Sapam Ranjan, Consumer Affairs Minister L Susindro Singh, and Municipal Administration Minister Y Khemchand were stormed by the protesters.
• In response to the escalating violence, the government has now imposed a total curfew in Imphal until further orders. Internet and mobile services have also been suspended in seven districts (Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kanqpokpi and Churachandpur) for two days.
• As many as 23 people have been arrested who were allegedly part of the mob involved in the “ransacking and arson of the houses,” said Manipur Police on Saturday. In a social media post on X, Manipur Police said, “On 16.11.2024, irate mobs have targeted various houses and properties of public representatives including Ministers and MLAs of the State in Imphal. Police have resorted to firing tear gas shells etc. to disperse the mob. Security forces including Army and Assam Rifles have been deployed in Imphal to strengthen the security in the town area. Flag marches have been conducted. 08 (eight) persons have been injured in the process of mob dispersal.”
• In addition to RK Imo, the residences of other BJP MLAs, including Sapam Kunjakesore and Joykishan Singh, were also targeted and vandalized.
• Protesters are demanding justice for the three bodies found on Friday night, calling for the arrest of the culprits within 24 hours.
• There were reports of suspected militants engaging in a brief firefight with security forces in Bishnupur district, though no casualties were reported.

The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has called for military action against militants and the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in affected areas.

The Manipur government has formally requested the central government to withdraw the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), which was recently reimposed in six areas of the state declared as disturbed areas.