Fresh violence erupted in Manipur late Friday night, prompting the government to impose strict curfews and suspend mobile internet in five districts. Visuals from the ground show a bus completely burnt and lying abandoned on the road, while the streets remain eerily silent under heavy restrictions.
The unrest spread across Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur districts. In response, a full curfew was enforced in Bishnupur from 11:00 p.m. on June 7, with all previous relaxations now cancelled due to the worsening situation.
Chilling Visuals from Imphal
Images and videos from Saturday morning show the aftermath of the violence — buses reduced to ashes, street fires, debris scattered across empty roads, and a ghostly quiet hanging over towns. The scenes highlight the growing ethnic tensions and the heavy clampdown by authorities.
To prevent gatherings that could spark further unrest, Section 144 of the CrPC has been imposed in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, and Kakching districts. This order bans the assembly of more than four people. Police and local authorities have urged the public to stay indoors and follow the restrictions.
Internet Blackout to Prevent Misinformation
The Manipur government also suspended mobile internet, VSAT, and VPN services in all five districts for five days starting from 11:45 p.m. on June 7. Officials say the decision was made to stop the spread of fake news and reduce tensions on the ground.
Only Essential Services Allowed
Exemptions from the curfew have been given to essential services, including healthcare workers, power and water department staff, media personnel, telecom engineers, and helpline teams for children and women.
District magistrates have appealed to residents to stay calm, avoid large gatherings, and cooperate with law enforcement efforts aimed at restoring peace in the region.