Formed as a socio-cultural outfit in 2020, the Arambai Tenggol has come to prominence since the Meitei-Kuki conflict began in Manipur nearly a year ago.
It is often accused of "garnering false support" by claiming to protect the public.
The group derives its name — which roughly translates to “spear wielders” — from the ancient war tactics of the Meitei warriors.
While it has an armed cadre strength of around 2,000, the outfit is supported by several thousand volunteers across the Manipur Valley.
Soon after the violence broke out in the state last May, members of the group were seen to be at the forefront of the clashes with Kukis.