Manipur government extends internet ban to maintain peace and order

The Manipur government has decided to extend the ban on internet services in the state for an additional five days, aiming to prevent any disturbances to peace and public order.

As the Northeast state continues to grapple with ethnic clashes and violence, the ban will now remain in effect until 3 pm on June 30. The objective is to maintain stability within Manipur's jurisdiction, said an official release.

The extension of the ban on mobile internet services in the state is attributed to the persisting unrest, as reported by the Director General of Police, Manipur. Incidents of violence, attacks, arson, and even exchanges of gunfire are still being reported. The government release expressed concerns over the potential misuse of social media platforms by anti-social elements, who might propagate hate speech, share inflammatory images and videos, and incite public sentiments. Such activities have the potential to significantly impact the law and order situation.

This also marks the third consecutive extension of the ban on internet services in the state.

The initial suspension of mobile internet services was implemented on May 3 amidst escalating ethnic violence, and the ban has remained in force ever since. The government previously extended the ban on June 11, up until June 15, and once again from June 20 to June 25.

Manipur has been embroiled in a month-long wave of ethnic violence following a directive from the high court, urging the state government to consider including the Meitei community in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs). The turmoil began on May 3 when clashes erupted during a rally organised by the All Tribals Students Union (ATSU) against the demand for including Meiteis in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs).

In response to the escalating violence, the central government deployed paramilitary forces to the Northeast state.