Manipur Limits Internet Suspension amid Student Agitation

The Manipur government amended an earlier order, now limiting internet service suspension to five valley districts following intensified student protests. The initial statewide suspension was scaled back to avoid affecting hill districts. The decision aims to prevent the spread of inflammatory material that could incite violence.

In a strategic shift, the Manipur government on Tuesday issued an amended order restricting the suspension of internet services to five valley districts. This comes in response to intensified student protests, which previously led to a statewide internet shutdown.

Officials clarified that the hill districts are not affected by the new directive. According to the latest Home Department order, the internet services suspension will remain effective in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching Districts for five days starting from 3:00 PM on September 10, 2024.

The order emphasizes the imminent dangers related to the spread of inflammatory material and false rumors via social media. Notably, over 40 students were injured during a clash with security forces while marching towards the Raj Bhavan in Imphal, demanding the removal of the state's DGP and security advisor.