The authorities in Manipur have broadened the scope of internet restrictions by implementing a five-day blackout on all online services in select areas of Kangpokpi and Kamjong districts, effective immediately. This decision comes as a precautionary tactic to maintain public order in the face of ongoing instability.
According to an official directive from the state home department, the suspension affects broadband, VPN, VSAT, and other data connections throughout the Lhungtin sub-division in Kangpokpi district and the Phungyar sub-division in Kamjong district. The curbs kicked in at 5:30 PM and build upon similar measures already in place in the adjacent Ukhrul district.
Officials have pointed to the precarious security environment in these interconnected regions as the primary rationale. There are growing worries that malicious actors could leverage social media channels to disseminate provocative visuals, messages, and videos, potentially sparking widespread agitation.
The notification, released by N Ashok Kumar, the commissioner-cum-secretary of the home department, underscores the risks of fatalities, destruction of assets, and disruptions to societal peace and inter-community relations. It particularly flags the dangers posed by misleading information and agitprop spread via online platforms, instant messaging, text services, and portable internet devices.
This action has been sanctioned under Rule 3 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024, following the Manipur Governor’s endorsement as a vital safeguard after assessing the current unrest.
Major telecom providers such as Airtel, Vodafone Idea, Jio, BSNL, and others have been instructed to enforce the ban without delay. The government has made it clear that non-compliance will result in stringent legal repercussions.
Residents are advised to rely on verified sources for information and assist local administrations in preserving calm during this period.
This extension reflects the state’s proactive strategy to curb misinformation and violence in sensitive zones, aiming to restore stability in Manipur’s hill districts.
Tags: Manipur Internet Ban, Kangpokpi District Shutdown, Kamjong District Restrictions, Manipur Unrest, Internet Suspension Northeast, Law and Order Manipur, Social Media Curbs, Telecommunication Rules 2024, Manipur Home Department, Northeast India Security
Hashtags: #ManipurInternetBan #Kangpokpi #Kamjong #ManipurUnrest #InternetShutdown #NortheastIndia #LawAndOrder #SocialMediaBan #ManipurNews #SecurityMeasures #TelecomSuspension
