Imphal: The Manipur government on February 10 extended internet restrictions to two more districts. It ordered a five-day suspension of all internet and data services in parts of Kangpokpi and Kamjong districts.
The state home department issued the order on February 10. It suspended internet services, including broadband, VPN and VSAT connections, across the entire revenue jurisdiction of Lhungtin sub-division in Kangpokpi and Phungyar sub-division in Kamjong. The ban came into effect at 5.30 pm on February 10. It expands the existing restrictions in neighbouring Ukhrul district.
Authorities cited a “volatile law and order situation” in the adjoining areas of the three districts. They said anti-social elements could misuse social media to spread inflammatory images, posts and videos. Such content, they warned, could trigger public unrest.
In the order, home commissioner-cum-secretary N Ashok Kumar flagged concerns over possible loss of life and damage to public and private property. He also warned of threats to public tranquillity and communal harmony.
Officials said false rumours and provocative content shared through social media, messaging apps, SMS and dongle services could spark serious disturbances.
The government imposed the suspension under Rule 3 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024. The Governor of Manipur approved the move as a preventive and precautionary step after reviewing the law and order situation.
The department directed all internet service providers, including Airtel, Vodafone Idea, Jio and BSNL, to comply immediately. It warned that any violation of the order would invite legal action.
