Manipur Government Prolongs Mobile Internet Shutdown in Valley Districts
The Manipur government on Friday announced a two-day extension of the mobile internet services suspension across five valley districts. This decision was driven by serious apprehensions regarding the proliferation of disinformation and false rumors through various social media platforms. Authorities also highlighted concerns about bulk SMSes being utilized to mobilize agitators and demonstrators, potentially exacerbating public unrest.
Background of the Initial Suspension
Earlier in the week, on Tuesday, the state administration had imposed a temporary suspension or curbing of internet and mobile data services in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur districts. This initial three-day measure was a direct response to widespread protests and violent outrage triggered by the tragic killing of two children in a bomb attack at Tronglaobi in Bishnupur district. While the suspension of broadband internet services was conditionally lifted on Wednesday, mobile internet remains heavily restricted.
Official Rationale for the Extension
An order issued by the state's home department on Friday clarified that after reviewing the prevailing situation, the government deemed it necessary to continue the suspension of mobile internet services. This includes VPN services, as the technical preparedness for establishing an effective control and regulatory mechanism for mobile data is currently not feasible. The extension aims to prevent the spread of inflammatory content and maintain public order during a period of heightened tension.
Brief Relaxation Allows Essential Purchases
Meanwhile, on Friday morning, residents took advantage of a brief relaxation of restrictions to flock to markets such as the Khwairamband Keithel Ima Market in Imphal. District magistrates of the five districts had enforced prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, restricting movement outside residences. However, these restrictions were temporarily lifted from 5 am to 9 am, providing a crucial window for people to purchase essential commodities like food, medicines, and other supplies.
Vendors, many of whom have faced significant business disruptions due to the ongoing unrest, quickly set up stalls to cater to the urgent needs of buyers. This brief respite allowed communities to restock on vital items amidst the continued enforcement of restrictions across the valley districts.
Upcoming Relaxation and Ongoing Protests
According to new orders issued on Friday, the restrictions will be relaxed again from 5 am to 12 noon on Saturday, offering another opportunity for residents to secure necessities. Despite this, tension remains high in Manipur's valley districts as widespread protests were staged in various localities on Friday. These demonstrations condemned the recent violence that claimed the lives of two children and resulted in three civilian deaths from security force firing.
While violent protests have largely subsided, democratic forms of protest continue, with people organizing sit-ins and taking out Meira rallies in the evening. The situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining security and addressing public grievances in the region.
