Internet Shutdown in Manipur for 5 days

Last Updated on September 24, 2023 by SPN Editor

The Government of Manipur Special Secretary (Home), H Gyan Prakash issued an order for internet shutdown in Manipur for 5 days starting 6th August 2022. This order is issued to prevent any disturbances of peace and public order in the State of Manipur.

The order further said that the order shall be in force for the next 5 days with immediate effect from the time the suspension order becomes operational or till further orders. All mobile service providers are hereby directed to ensure compliance of the government order. Any person found guilty for violation of aforesaid orders will be liable for legal actions.

Reason for Internet shutdown in Manipur is explained here. DGP, Manipur wide letter No. 1C/11(163)/2008-PHQ(Pt)dated 06-08-2022 has furnished as reported by the SP, Bishnupur District that an incident occurred on 06-08-2022 at 3.35 PM at Phougakchao Ithai Awang Leikai along Tiddim Road NH -02 wherein one Eco Van was reportedly found burning set ablaze by 3/4 youths suspected to be of a community. The crime has created tense communal situation and volatile law and order situation in the State.

Anti social elements are using social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate video messages inciting the passions of the public. The social media has also become a handy tool for rumour mongers and is used to incite general public which might have serious repercussions for the law and order situation in the State.

To thwart the design and activities of anti national and anti social elements and to maintain peace and communal harmony and to prevent any loss of life or danger t public /private properties, it as become necessary to take adequate means to maintain law and order in public interest.

The step has been taken to stop the spread of disinformation and false rumours, through various social media platform such as Whatsapp, Facebook etc on mobile phone and SMS, for the facilitating and mobilization of mobs of agitators and demonstrators, which can cause loss of life or damage to public /private properties by indulging in arsons/vandalism and other types of violent activities.