Internet ban extended again till October 21 in Manipur

IMPHAL — Manipur government has extended the suspension of mobile data internet services again till October 21, according to a government order issued on Monday.

“There is an apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media for transmission of images, hate speech and hate video messages inciting the passions of the public, which might have serious repercussions for the law and order situation in the state,” said an order signed by the Commissioner (Home), T Ranjit Singh.

To thwart the designs and activities of anti-national and anti-social elements, and maintain peace, communal harmony, and prevent any loss of life or danger to public/private property, the order states that it has become necessary to take adequate measures to maintain law and order in the public interest.

As the situation is likely to cause serious disturbances to peaceful coexistence and the maintenance of public order, the suspension/curbing of mobile internet/data services, as well as internet/data services through VPN, in the territorial jurisdiction of the state of Manipur has been extended for another five days with immediate effect.

The Manipur government had suspended mobile data services in some districts of the state on May 3 following ethnic violence. A day later, all internet services were shut down across the state, and this measure has continued since.

Also read: Government bans circulation of riot videos, images that worsen situation in Manipur