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Key Points

The Manipur government has taken drastic measures by suspending internet services across five valley districts following protests in Imphal. The decision comes after the reported arrest of an Arambai Tenggol leader, which triggered widespread demonstrations and potential law and order risks. Security forces have been deployed to manage the tense situation and prevent potential communal disruptions. The internet suspension is a preventive step to control the potential spread of inflammatory content through social media platforms.

Key Points: Manipur Suspends Internet Amid Arambai Tenggol Arrest Tensions

  • Internet suspended in five Manipur districts due to potential social media unrest
  • Protests erupted after reported Arambai Tenggol leader arrest
  • Security forces deployed to control volatile situation
  • Temporary communication blackout to prevent potential communal tensions
3 min read

Manipur govt suspends Net services in five districts after tension erupts

Manipur government blocks internet in five districts after protests erupt following Arambai Tenggol leader's arrest, raising law and order concerns

"There is an imminent danger of loss of life and damage to public property - N. Ashok Kumar, Manipur Home Secretary"

Imphal, June 8

The Manipur government has suspended Internet and mobile data services in the territorial jurisdiction of five valley districts for five days after widespread protests in Imphal East and Imphal West districts following the reported arrest of a leader of the Meitei radical outfit ‘Arambai Tenggol’, officials have said.

Manipur’s Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home), N. Ashok Kumar, in an order, issued late on Saturday night, said, “In view of the prevailing law and order situation in the state of Manipur especially in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur districts districts, there is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively 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 of Manipur.”

“...there is an imminent danger of loss of life and/or damage to public/private property, and widespread disturbances to public tranquillity and communal harmony, as a result of inflammatory material and false rumours, which might be transmitted/circulated to the public through social media/messaging services on mobile services, SMS services and dongle services,” the order said.

It said that Internet and mobile data services, including VSAT and VPN services, were suspended in the territorial jurisdiction of Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur districts for five days, effective Saturday midnight.

The suspension of Internet and mobile data services would not be effective for those cases where the state government exempts and allows for whitelisting. The order is being passed ex parte in view of the emergent situation, the order said, adding that any person found guilty for violation of aforesaid orders would be liable for legal action.

Earlier on Saturday night, protests erupted in certain parts of Imphal after the reported arrest of a leader of the Meitei radical outfit Arambai Tenggol.

The protesters burnt tyres and old furniture in the middle of an important road at Kwakeithel and Uripok in Imphal West District, demanding the immediate release of the leader. Additional security forces led by senior officials have been deployed in both Imphal East and Imphal West districts to bring the situation under control.

Police officials are tight-lipped about the reported arrest of the Arambai Tenggol leader. BJP's Rajya Sabha member Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba was seen on the street late on Saturday night, angrily talking with the security officials about the arrest.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Internet shutdowns have become the first response to any tension in Northeast states. While I understand the need to control rumors, this affects common people's livelihoods, students' education, and emergency services. There must be better solutions! 🤔
R
Rahul S.
The situation in Manipur is complex. Cutting internet may stop rumors but also stops genuine communication. Saw similar things happen in Kashmir. Government should focus more on addressing root causes rather than just controlling information flow.
A
Arjun M.
As someone with family in Imphal, this shutdown is necessary evil. Last year's violence showed how social media can fuel tensions. But 5 days is too long - hope they restore services sooner if situation improves. Stay safe Manipur! 🙏
S
Sunita P.
Why is a Rajya Sabha member interfering in police matters? If the arrested leader has done something wrong, law should take its course. VIP culture shouldn't apply to radical elements. Full support to Manipur police!
V
Vikram J.
Internet shutdowns cost Indian economy crores every day. Instead of blanket bans, why can't telecom companies selectively block problematic platforms? We're in digital India but still using colonial-era solutions to law and order.
N
Neha T.
The real issue is why radical outfits like Arambai Tenggol exist in first place. Both state and central governments need long-term strategy for Northeast development and integration. Band-aid solutions won't work anymore. #ManipurDeservesBetter

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