Manipur Internet Ban: Services Halted for 5 Days

The Manipur government has suspended internet services across the state for five days due to escalating tensions and ongoing student protests. According to the Home Department’s notification, the internet shutdown will remain in place until September 15, 2024. The order affects all internet and mobile data services, including lease lines, VSATs, broadband, and VPN services, from Tuesday, September 10, 2024, 3 PM, to Sunday, September 15, 2024, 3 PM.

The government’s decision was based on concerns that “some anti-social elements” might use social media to share inflammatory images, hate speech, and rumors, potentially leading to public unrest and disturbances. Protestors, including students and women, clashed with security forces as they attempted to march towards the Raj Bhavan, demanding the removal of the DGP and security advisor to the Manipur government.

Eight people have died, and over 12 have been injured in recent violence, including drone and missile attacks. Manipur University students also protested, burning an effigy of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The Manipur government has imposed a curfew in Imphal East and West districts and enforced prohibitory orders under Section 163 (2) of BNSS in Thoubal in response to the protests.

The unrest in Manipur has been ongoing for 16 months, marked by frequent clashes, drone strikes, and attacks. Over 200 people have been killed, and thousands have been displaced in ethnic violence between the Meitei community in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo groups in the adjoining hills since May last year. Recent incidents include an RPG attack in Moirang, Bishnupur district, killing a person performing puja and another explosion causing significant damage in Trounglaobi village.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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