Sipu Jha
NEW DELHI: The Manipur government on Tuesday suspended internet and data services across Ukhrul district for five days, citing a volatile law and order situation following fresh violence in the area. The shutdown covers mobile data, broadband, VPN and VSAT services and came into effect at 11.30 am on February 10.In an official order, the state said there was apprehension that “some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, posts and video messages inciting the passions of the public which might have serious repercussions on the law-and-order situation in the State of Manipur.” The government said the decision was taken as a preventive and precautionary measure after reviewing the prevailing situation.The suspension follows overnight violence in Litan Bazar, where mobs torched at least two dozen homes and several private vehicles since Sunday night. The unrest was triggered after a Tangkhul Naga villager was critically injured in an alleged assault by suspected Kuki tribesmen, leading to rioting and arson involving members of both communities.Officials said more than 20 private homes and government quarters were set ablaze, forcing hundreds of villagers to flee. Security deployment has been scaled up in the area, a ban has been imposed on carrying licensed firearms, and the situation remains tense despite administrative action.The violence began after a Tangkhul man, identified as Sterling Shimray, was hospitalised at RIMS Imphal following what appeared to be an attack linked to a local dispute. By Sunday evening, Litan Bazar witnessed intermittent firing and large-scale arson.Deputy chief minister Losii Dikho chaired an emergency meeting at Litan police station along with MLAs from both communities. “Few individuals are behind this violence. Both sides want peace. Govt will arrest the culprits soon and restore calm,” Dikho said.Chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh earlier visited the injured villager at RIMS and appealed to residents to maintain peace. The Litan Sareikhong Village Authority also issued a statement urging restraint, saying “what began as an altercation involving intoxicated individuals should not be communalised.”Kuki-Zo groups, meanwhile, have continued protests linked to political developments in the state, adding to the underlying tensions in the region.The internet suspension has been ordered under Rule 3 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024. The government said the order was issued ex parte due to the emergent situation and warned that any violation would invite legal action.
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