Internet Ban Extended In Manipur Till Oct 26

Manipur Home Commissioner T. Ranjit Singh in an order said that still there are reports violence across the state.

Members of Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei organisation, during a demonstration against the alleged brutality by security forces in violence-hit Manipur. ( Image Source :PTI )

New Delhi: The Manipur government extended the suspension of internet services in the strife-torn northeast state for another five days amid reports of sporadic incidents of violence. The ban on internet services will remain until October 26.

Manipur Home Commissioner T. Ranjit Singh in an order said that still there are reports violence such as confrontation of the public with security forces, trying to mob the elected member’s residences, civil protests in front of the police stations.

“There is apprehension 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 in the state,” the order read.

The order further stated that in a bid to prevent the situation from turning volatile, that would disrupt the normal life, suspension of mobile internet and data services have been extended for another five days in the territorial jurisdiction of the state and will remain in effect till 7.45 pm of October 26.

The ban on internet services in Manipur was extended even though Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday said that it would be restored within four to five days.

Security Forces Recover Arms And Ammunition

Meanwhile, security forces recovered more arms, ammunition and explosives during search operations over the past 24 hours. During the raids conducted vulnerable areas of Imphal West, Kakching, Thoubal and Churachandpur districts, the security forces recovered two carbines, two 9mm pistols, one .22 pistol and one single barrel rifle. 

The security forces also recovered 41 live rounds of 9mm pistol bullets, eight live rounds of .38 pistol bullets and one live 5.56mm gun bullet. As many as 20 hand grenades were also recovered.

Meanwhile, farmers of the Sangaitjhel area in Imphal West district started harvesting their crops under adequate security cover.

In a post on Facebook, Chief Minister Singh said, “Pleased to learn that the harvesting of rice crops is continuing at Sangaithel Maning Loukol under full security protection of Patsoi PS teams, Sangaithel OP teams, C-71 CRPF, 5/9-GR and 5MR/SDRF.”