Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi / Imphal: The Manipur government has imposed a five-day suspension of internet and mobile data services in five districtsfollowing a flare-up in protests and heightened tensions in the state.
The suspension order, issued late on 7 June by Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N Ashok Kumar, affects Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur districts. It took effect from 11:45 PM on Friday and will continue until further notice.
Concerns Over Misuse of Social Media
The official order cited a “serious law and order situation” and the possibility of social media being misused to circulate inflammatory content. Authorities fear that anti-social elements could use platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) to spread hate speech, fake news, or provocative videos, potentially inciting public unrest.
“There is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media… which might have serious repercussions for the law and order situation,” the order stated.
The suspension includes all internet and mobile data services, even VSAT and VPN networks.
Protests and Political Confrontation
The move follows Saturday night protests in Imphal East and Imphal West, after the arrest of a leader from Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei civil group. Protesters reportedly blocked roads with burning tyres and furniture, demanding the leader’s release.
A video that has since gone viral showed BJP MP Leishemba Sanajaoba confronting security personnel, saying that if leaders continue to be arrested, they should arrest him and other MLAs too.
Security Crackdown and Rising Tensions
The unrest comes amid an ongoing ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which has claimed over 260 lives since May 2023. In a separate development, police reported the arrest of three militants from banned insurgent groups — the Kangleipak Communist Party (Peoples’ War Group) and the United People’s Party of Kangleipak (UPPK). Authorities also seized weapons, IEDs, and mortars in multiple search operations.
Manipur has remained tense since the outbreak of ethnic violence. In February 2025, President’s Rule was imposed following the resignation of then Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
