Manipur: Internet Ban Extended Till Nov 5 After Fresh Violence

Internet ban has been extended in the strife-torn state of Manipur after incidents of fresh violence. 

File photo of security forces manning a village in Manipur

Source : Special Arrangement

Guwahati: The government of Manipur has extended the suspension on mobile data and internet services across the northeastern state for five more days amid fresh incidents of violence that erupted in the strife-torn state after a brief lull.   

The order, issued by Manipur Home Commissioner T Ranjit Singh, said there were reports of public protest against the deployment of Central security forces, public conventions, meetings at various local clubs and block levels, and attempts to storm residences of the elected members, Civil Society Organisation (CSO) leaders, among others.

“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 of Manipur,” the order read.   

The order further said that as the situation was likely to cause serious disturbances, mobile internet and data services were being suspended in the territorial jurisdiction of Manipur for another five days with immediate effect in a bid to maintain public order. Anybody who violated the order would be liable for legal action.

As the restive state was limping back to normalcy, violence erupted once again on Tuesday with the killing of the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Moreh, Chingtham Anand Kumar, by armed miscreants.

The attack took place when he was on duty, overseeing the cleaning of the grounds at Eastern Shine School for the construction of a helipad, a project jointly managed by the police and the Border Security Force (BSF).

Taking to X, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said, “Deeply saddened by the cold-blooded killing of SDPO Chingtham Anand, OC Moreh Police. His dedication to serve and protect the people will always be remembered. The perpetrators will be brought to justice.”

Meanwhile, the Manipur police on Tuesday detained as many as 2,194 persons in connection with violation of law in different districts of the state.