The mobile internet suspension in Manipur has been extended for an additional two days. Authorities decided to continue the restrictions to maintain law and order in the region. A representative from the local administration stated that the extended suspension aims to curb the spread of misinformation and prevent potential unrest.
This measure was implemented after incidents of violent protests, which were reportedly organized through social media platforms. The decision to keep mobile internet services suspended has impacted daily life, causing disruptions in communication and business activities. Residents have expressed frustration over the prolonged limitation but understand the necessity behind the decision.
The Manipur government has rescinded its previous order to resume normal classes in schools, extending the closure until November 26, 2024. Director L. Nandakumar of the Directorate of Education (Schools) issued an order on Sunday night reversing the earlier directive.
Manipur internet suspension extended
The new order mandates that all schools in the valley districts will remain closed on November 25 and 26. Zonal education officers have been instructed to inform all concerned parties within their jurisdiction and take necessary actions accordingly.
The decision to keep schools closed follows widespread protests and a curfew imposed in five districts after an encounter on November 11 between security forces and armed militants resulted in the deaths of ten militants and the recovery of bodies of six civilians. Authorities relaxed the curfew on Sunday, allowing residents in the affected districts to buy essentials from 5 a.m. to 12 noon. The indefinite curfew began to ease on November 13.
The state home department has also extended the suspension of mobile internet services for two more days in nine districts until November 25, 2024. The prohibitory orders issued in the five Imphal Valley districts of Manipur will be relaxed for five hours every morning to enable people to buy essential items. The relaxation will be allowed from 5 AM to 10 AM, according to notifications issued by the district administrations.
The orders emphasized that the relaxation will not apply to any gathering, large-scale movement of persons, or sit-in protests deemed unlawful. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS were imposed in these districts, restricting gatherings of five or more people, amid fresh tensions in the state following recent violence in the Jiribam district.
