MANIPUR, India: The Manipur government has extended the ban on mobile internet services in five districts—Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching—until September 20 due to the ongoing law and order situation.
This decision follows violent incidents and large-scale student protests. The mobile internet ban, initially imposed on September 10, was set to expire on September 15 but was extended as tensions remained high.
The Home Department’s order, issued by Commissioner N. Ashok Kumar, also keeps VSAT and VPN services suspended. However, broadband and fixed lease line internet services have been restored in certain districts, but mobile data services remain blocked.
Manipur has faced significant unrest since September 1, with at least 12 people killed, including two women and a retired soldier, and over 20 others injured. In response, curfews were re-imposed in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, and Thoubal districts, although restrictions were relaxed for seven hours on Sunday.
Thousands of students protested on September 9 and 10, demanding the removal of the Director General of Police and other security officials for their alleged failure to control militant violence. Students also called for the withdrawal of central forces and the preservation of Manipur’s territorial integrity. Schools and colleges were closed until September 14 in response to the escalating violence.
Security forces, including the Army, Assam Rifles, and Central Reserve Police Force, continue anti-insurgency operations across the state.
