The Manipur government has extended the internet ban in seven districts by three days due to escalating violence in the region.¹ This decision aims to maintain law and order and prevent the spread of misinformation that could fuel further unrest. The ban, which initially began on November 16, will now continue until further notice.
The affected districts are Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, Kakching, Churachandpur, and Kangpokpi. While broadband services were temporarily restored on November 19, mobile internet services remain suspended to prevent the spread of inflammatory content and rumors [1).
The situation in Manipur remains tense, with reports of clashes and vandalism. The government has deployed additional security forces to maintain peace and restore normalcy. The internet ban is a precautionary measure to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
Local residents and business owners have expressed concerns about the economic impact of the internet ban. Many rely on online services for their livelihood, and the suspension has disrupted their operations. However, the government has assured that the ban will be lifted as soon as the situation improves.
The Manipur government’s decision to extend the internet ban highlights the challenges of balancing public safety with individual freedoms. While the measure aims to maintain law and order, it also underscores the need for effective communication and conflict resolution strategies to address the underlying issues driving the violence.