Manipur Government Imposes Five-Day Internet Blackout in Ukhrul District
The Manipur government has taken decisive action by suspending all internet and data services across Ukhrul district for a period of five days. This drastic measure comes in response to escalating violent clashes between the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities in the Litan area, which have persisted for three consecutive days.
Preventive Measure to Curb Rumors and Inflammatory Content
Official sources confirmed that the suspension is a preventive strategy designed to curb the rapid spread of rumors and inflammatory content through digital channels. Authorities fear such material could significantly worsen existing tensions between the communities. The comprehensive order covers broadband services, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) services, invoking Rule 3 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024.
Root Cause and Escalation of Violence
The violent confrontations were reportedly triggered by an alleged assault on a Tangkhul Naga man by a group of Kuki men on Saturday night. Since then, the situation has deteriorated rapidly, with both sides resorting to arson and firing. Over 20 houses and government quarters have been set ablaze in the conflict. In response, prohibitory orders have been in effect in Litan since Sunday evening to contain the violence.
Expansion of Hostilities and Community Responses
In what appears to be a concerning expansion of hostilities, the Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC) has alleged that approximately 30 Vaiphei youths attacked K Lungwiram Naga village in Kangpokpi district early Tuesday morning, setting fire to a house. The FNCC issued a stern warning, stating that failure to arrest the perpetrators would compel them to initiate "proportionate retaliatory measures." They have also demanded the immediate deployment of neutral security forces and the provision of humanitarian relief in affected Naga areas.
The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has expressed grave concern over the unfolding situation. In a statement, COCOMI described the violence as part of a "long-engineered crisis" rather than isolated incidents. They cautioned that unchecked escalation could trigger wider retaliation and deepen communal polarization across the hill districts of Manipur.
Calls for Action and Peace
COCOMI has urgently called upon authorities to implement transparent and impartial measures to halt the violence, protect civilian lives, and hold those responsible accountable. Echoing this sentiment, the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) has appealed to both the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities to renounce violence and collaborate towards fostering harmony and collective development in the region.
The suspension of internet services underscores the government's attempt to control the narrative and prevent further escalation, but it also highlights the fragile ethnic relations in Manipur that require immediate and sustained intervention to restore peace and stability.
