Internet shutdown in Manipur’s Ukhrul for 5 days following arson, communal unrest | India News
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 on February 10 at 11.30am.In an official order, the state said there was apprehension that “some anti-social elements may use social media extensively to send pictures, posts and video messages to incite public sentiments which may seriously impact 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 current situation.The suspension follows overnight violence in Litan Bazar, where mobs torched at least two dozen houses and several private vehicles since Sunday night. The unrest erupted after a Tangkhul Naga villager was seriously injured in an alleged attack by suspected Kuki tribesmen, leading to riots and arson by members of both communities.Officials said more than 20 private houses and government quarters were set on fire, forcing hundreds of villagers to flee. Security has been beefed up in the area, the carrying of licensed firearms has been banned and the situation remains tense despite administrative action.The violence erupted after a Tangkhul man named Sterling Shimre was hospitalized in Rims Imphal after an attack in what appeared to be a local dispute. By Sunday evening, Liton Bazar was the scene of sporadic firing and large-scale arson.Deputy Chief Minister Losi Dikho chaired an emergency meeting with MLAs from both communities at Litan police station. “There are very few individuals behind this violence. Both sides want peace. The government will soon arrest the culprits and restore peace,” Dikho said.Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh had earlier visited the injured villagers at RIMS and appealed to the residents to maintain peace. Litan Sarekhong village authorities also issued a statement calling for restraint, saying, “What started as a brawl involving drunken persons should not become communal.”Meanwhile, Kuki-Jo groups continued to protest linked to political developments in the state, adding to the underlying tensions in the region.The internet suspension was ordered under Rule 3 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024. The government said the order was issued unilaterally due to an emergency situation and warned that any violation would invite legal action.
