The State Government has ordered suspension of internet and mobile data services in five districts amid mass public protests against the killing of two children in a bomb attack at Tronglaobi by suspected Kuki militants.
As per an order issued by the Home Department, internet services, including mobile data, broadband, VSATs and VPN services, have been suspended in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur districts for three days starting from 2 pm on April 7.
“In view of the prevailing law and order situation in five districts of Manipur viz, Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur, there exists apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media for transmission of images, hate speech and hate video messages inciting the public which might have serious repercussions on the law-and-order situation in the State of Manipur,” the order stated.
“Whereas, to thwart the design and activities of anti-national and anti-social elements and to maintain peace and communal harmony and to prevent any loss of life or danger to public/private property, it has become necessary to take adequate preventive measures to maintain law and order in public interest, by stopping the spread of disinformation and false rumours, through various social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter etc. on various electronic equipment like tablet, computer, mobile phone etc. and sending bulk SMS, for facilitating and/or mobilization of mobs of agitators and demonstrators, which can cause loss of life and/or damage to public/private property by indulging in arson/vandalism and other types of violent activities, the State Government decided to order temporary suspension/curbing of internet services and mobile data services including Broadband, VSATS and VPN services in the territorial jurisdiction of 5 districts viz- Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur in public interest,” it stated.
Notably, huge protests erupted in different locations following the killing of two children in a bomb attack by suspected Kuki militants.
Internet suspended in five districts for three days
