Lagatar24 Desk
Imphal, June 25: To avoid any disruptions of the peace and public order, the Manipur administration on Sunday extended the ban on internet services in the state for an additional five days till June 30.
An official release states that the state in the Northeast, which has been plagued by violence and ethnic confrontations, has extended the ban on internet services until 3 p.m. of June 30 to “prevent any disturbances of peace and public order in the jurisdiction of the State of Manipur”.
In addition, the government release stated that the state’s ban on mobile internet services had been extended due to the “persisting unrest”.
“Director General of Police, Manipur vide letter No.IC/11(163)/2008-PHQ(Pt) dated 24-06-2023 reported that there are still reports of incidents of violence, attacks and arson of houses and premises including exchange of firing,” the release stated.
“There is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for the transmission of images, hate speech and hate video messages inciting the passions of the public which might have serious repercussions for the law and offer situation in the State of Manipur,” it added.
The state’s prohibition on internet services has already been extended three times in a row.
In response to the escalating ethnic violence, the Manipur government had already halted mobile internet services in the state on May 3. The restriction has been in effect ever then.
The ban was extended by the government on June 11 through June 15 and then for an additional five days, from June 20 to June 25.
