In a bid to restore order amid escalating violence and protests, the Manipur government has implemented a temporary internet ban and curfews in three districts. This drastic measure comes as the state struggles to contain the unrest fueled by ongoing demands for peace. The order, issued by the BJP-led government, aims to “curb/temporarily suspend internet and mobile data services including Lease Lines, VSATs, Broadbands and VPN services” in the state for five days, starting from Tuesday, September 10th, at 3 pm and lasting until Sunday, September 15th, at 3 pm.
The government cites “an imminent danger of loss of life and or damage to public and private property, and wide spread disturbances to public tranquility and communal harmony” as the primary reason for the internet ban. This decision is attributed to the spread of inflammatory materials and false rumors via social media, messaging services, and SMS services, which are deemed to be fueling the unrest.
Adding to the state’s tense atmosphere, the administration has imposed indefinite curfews in three districts – Imphal West, Imphal East, and Thoubal – starting at 11 am on September 10th. This move follows a day of student protests demanding the restoration of peace, which turned violent in the Imphal Valley. The government’s justification for the curfew highlights the need to “thwart the design and activities of anti-national and anti-social elements and to maintain peace and communal harmony” by preventing the spread of misinformation and potential violence.
Adding to the growing concern, all schools in Manipur, both government and private institutions, have been ordered to remain closed until Thursday, September 12th. This decision follows an earlier order issued on September 8th and reflects the continued uncertainty and unrest that has gripped the state. The closure of schools stems from the escalating violence and student protests, highlighting the profound impact the unrest has had on education and everyday life in Manipur.
The latest round of violence erupted last week, resulting in the deaths of six people in the Jiribam district. Suspected Kuki insurgents targeted the village of Nungchappi, located 229 kilometers from the state capital, Imphal, leading to the death of 63-year-old Yurembam Kulendra Singha. This attack was preceded by a rocket-propelled bomb assault in Moirang town.
Adding to the grim reality of the situation, a 46-year-old woman lost her life in a clash between two armed groups in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district during a clash in the remote Thangbuh village on Sunday night. The escalating violence culminated in a torchlight protest on Monday night, where women in Imphal took to the streets, marching through the violence-hit state while holding torches and posters and chanting slogans in Imphal’s Thangmeiband. The protests reflect the growing frustration and anxiety among the citizens of Manipur, who are desperate for peace and an end to the ongoing violence.
