The Manipur government has extended the suspension of internet services in the mountainous state till May 31 in view of the recent violence that has occurred. Manipur’s Commissioner of Home, H. Gyan Prakash, issued the order stating that the Director General of Police reported that incidents such as arson of houses and premises were still occurring, necessitating the extension of the internet suspension. The notification also noted that there was fear that anti-social elements may use social media platforms to spread images, hate speech, and hate videos, worsening the law and order situation across the state.
The internet suspension has caused an increase in the problems already faced by the people of Manipur due to the shutdown of essential items, transport fuel, and life-saving drugs, along with disturbances in banking and ATM facilities. The Manipur Congress, media outlets, and various other organisations have been demanding the immediate restoration of internet service in the state.
In response to the recent escalation of violence, the Army, in collaboration with the Assam Rifles, has launched large-scale combing operations in vulnerable areas, as well as the high reaches of Imphal valley. These operations are part of the overall efforts to restore peace and normalcy to Manipur. Last night, the Army and Assam Rifles were also able to save lives during a search in Churachandpur and Imphal East districts, successfully tracking down any armed insurgents operating in the region.
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H Gyan Prakash is the Commissioner of Home of Manipur. He issued an order extending the suspension of internet services till May 31 in light of the recent violence and the possibility of anti-social elements spreading hate content.
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The Indian Army and Assam Rifles have launched large search operations in order to restore peace and order in Manipur. They are utilising the latest technology, weapons, equipment, and other force multipliers extensively in order to track down any armed insurgents in the Forested, remote, and mountainous areas. Last night, these forces also saved many lives in Churachandpur and Imphal East.