Imphal: Internet and mobile data services have been suspended for five days across key districts in Manipur’s central valley following fresh unrest in the state capital, Imphal, late Saturday. The unrest was sparked by the reported detention of a leader of the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol by security personnel.
According to local sources, the individual was picked up from the Kwakeithel area in Imphal West on Saturday evening. In response, protesters poured into the streets, blocking roads and setting tyres ablaze at various locations including Tiddim Road and Uripok. The demonstrations escalated into confrontations with security forces in Kwakeithel, leaving several individuals injured.
In a late-night development, the Manipur government moved swiftly to curb the spread of unrest. In an official order issued by Home Commissioner N. Ashok Kumar, internet services—including mobile data, VSAT, and VPNs—were suspended in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur districts. The order cited the potential misuse of social media by “anti-social elements” to disseminate inflammatory content, which could further aggravate tensions and threaten public order.
This marks the second major internet suspension in the region since September last year, when a similar step was taken following a resurgence of violence.
Authorities have also imposed prohibitory measures under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) across the valley districts. The restrictions were put in place to pre-empt any “serious breach of peace” or acts of violence that could endanger lives and property. Additionally, a total curfew came into effect in Bishnupur district starting 11 PM on June 7.
The situation remains tense, with security forces maintaining heightened vigil across the affected areas.
