The Manipur government has extended the suspension of mobile internet services for an additional three days in seven districts due to ongoing law and order concerns, as per an order from the state’s home department on Wednesday.
The initial suspension of mobile internet services began on November 16 for a period of two days to curb the activities of anti-national and anti-social elements, maintain communal harmony, and prevent the spread of disinformation and rumors through social media platforms. The suspension was then extended for another two days on Monday.
Following a review of the law and order situation, the state government decided to continue the suspension of mobile internet and data services, including VSATs and VPN services, in the districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur. The new order will be in effect from 5:15 pm on November 20 until 5:15 pm on November 23, except in cases where the state grants exemptions.
The mobile internet ban, which started on November 16, was also extended to Jiribam and Pherzawl districts for two additional days starting at 11:45 am on Sunday, excluding government offices and other exempted cases.
This move follows widespread protests and the imposition of a curfew in five districts after the bodies of six civilians—three women and three children—were recovered. The victims had been missing after an encounter between armed militants and security forces on November 11.
On Tuesday, the state home department lifted the suspension on broadband services after three days, recognizing the difficulties faced by the public, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and offices. However, mobile internet services remain suspended in the affected districts.
