Internet Suspension Extended in Manipur Amid Unrest

Imphal- The Manipur government announced a two-day extension of the mobile internet and data service suspension in nine districts, including Jiribam, on Friday. The decision, according to Home Department officials, is a precautionary measure to prevent potential unrest following recent violence in the state.

The suspension, initially imposed on November 18, has been extended periodically since then. The affected districts include Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, Jiribam, and Pherzawl. Mobile internet and data services will be restored at 5:15 p.m. on December 1 in nine districts of Manipur.

The decision to extend the suspension comes after widespread violence and attacks by mobs that started on November 16 in valley districts, including Imphal East and Imphal West, following the recovery of six bodies of missing three children and three women in Jiribam district on November 15 and 16.

Home Commissioner, N. Ashok Kumar, cited concerns in his order about potential misuse of social media for spreading misinformation and inciting violence, stating that "some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate video messages inciting the passions of the public which might have serious repercussions for the law and order situation."

The decision comes despite a lull in major incidents since November 18, with the exception of a person reported missing from Kangpokpi district on November 25.

However, authorities are taking a cautious approach, citing the ongoing law and order situation.

Despite the suspension, educational institutions in six districts, including Imphal West and Imphal East, reopened on Friday. Thousands of students returned to their schools in high spirits. Officials expect attendance to return to normal in the coming days.

Curfew restrictions in these six districts have also been eased to facilitate student mobility and allow residents to access essential goods. Gatherings and rallies, however, require prior permission from authorities.

(Source- IANS)