Manipur Government Extends Mobile Internet Ban in Five Districts Until April 18
Synopsis
In a bid to address ongoing law and order challenges, the Manipur government has extended the mobile internet suspension in five districts until April 18. This crucial move follows a tragic bomb attack, emphasizing the need to curb misinformation and prevent further violence.
Key Takeaways
Internet suspension extended in Manipur until April 18.
Reasons include law and order issues and misinformation concerns .
Initial ban was prompted by a deadly bomb attack .
Curfew has been relaxed to allow essential activities.
Protests continue against the attack, calling for accountability.
Imphal, April 16 (NationPress) In light of ongoing law and order issues, the Manipur government has once again prolonged the suspension of mobile internet and data services, including broadband, for an additional two days, extending until April 18, across five districts in the Imphal valley.
Officials indicated that this decision was prompted by fears concerning the dissemination of misleading information and false narratives on various social media platforms.
The initial suspension of mobile internet and data services was enforced for three days, following a tragic bomb attack in Bishnupur district on April 7. This attack, allegedly executed by suspected Kuki militants, resulted in the deaths of two children and left their mother injured.
Since the initial restrictions, the suspension has been extended multiple times, usually in two-day increments, across the same five districts: Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur. This measure aims to avert any further escalation of violence.
A notification from Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N. Ashok Kumar stated that the decision to continue the suspension was made after a careful evaluation of the current law and order conditions in these districts.
The notification emphasized that the state government deems it necessary to maintain the suspension of mobile internet services, mobile data services, and VPN accessibility due to insufficient technical feasibility for effective monitoring and regulatory measures concerning mobile data usage.
Authorities also voiced concerns about the misuse of social media for spreading misinformation.
“The dissemination of false information and rumors, as well as the distribution of bulk SMS messages, can lead to the mobilization of hostile groups and demonstrators. This could result in loss of life and damage to public and private assets through arson, vandalism, and other violent acts for which control mechanisms remain inadequate,” the notification warned.
Moreover, it cautioned that anyone found violating these orders would face legal repercussions.
In additional notifications, District Magistrates from the five Imphal valley districts announced a relaxation of curfew restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
The curfew has been eased daily from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., allowing residents to engage in essential and urgent activities. However, in Bishnupur district, the curfew relaxation period is from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m.
The orders explicitly state that no individual is allowed to carry any type of weapon during the relaxation period, including sticks, stones, unlicensed firearms, or any object that could potentially serve as an offensive weapon.
Shops and retail outlets have also been permitted to operate during these relaxation hours, following the directives from the respective District Magistrates.
In the wake of the April 7 bomb attack in Bishnupur district, thousands, including many women and members of various civil society organizations, have been conducting daily protest rallies across the Imphal valley districts. Protesters have vehemently condemned the attack and are calling for severe penalties for those accountable.
The Manipur government has already transferred the investigation of this tragic incident to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Point of View
The extension of the internet ban in Manipur highlights the government's efforts to maintain order amidst rising tensions. While the need for security is paramount, the implications for communication and civil liberties must also be considered carefully.
NationPress
3 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has the mobile internet ban been extended in Manipur?
The mobile internet ban has been extended due to ongoing law and order concerns and the need to prevent the spread of misinformation following a tragic bomb attack.
What areas are affected by the internet suspension?
The suspension affects five districts in the Imphal valley: Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur.
What are the consequences of violating the orders?
Individuals found violating the orders will face legal action as stipulated in the government's notification.
Is there any relaxation of curfew in the affected areas?
Yes, the curfew has been relaxed daily from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., although in Bishnupur, it is from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m.
What are the ongoing protests in Manipur about?
The protests are in response to the bomb attack, with demonstrators demanding strict punishment for those responsible.
