Imphal, Manipur, September 26, 2023 – Mobile internet services have been suspended in the northeastern state of Manipur for a period of five days, according to an official statement released by the Home Department of the Manipur government. The decision comes in response to the growing law and order concerns stemming from the spread of disinformation, false rumors, and the incitement of violent activities on various social media platforms.
Government Takes Serious Note of the Situation
In an official statement, the Home Department expressed its grave concern over the prevailing law and order situation in Manipur, particularly the widespread dissemination of unverified information through platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. The government cited the potential for these messages to facilitate and mobilize agitators and demonstrators, potentially leading to loss of life or damage to public and private property.
Internet Restrictions to Last Until October 1, 2023
As a result of these concerns, the Manipur government has decided to suspend mobile internet data services and internet/data services through VPN in the state’s territorial jurisdiction for a period of five days, with the restrictions set to be in place until 7:45 pm on October 1, 2023.
Protests Erupt Over Deaths of Two Missing Meitei Students
Earlier in the day, Imphal, the capital of Manipur, witnessed large-scale protests as hundreds of students took to the streets demanding justice for two missing Meitei teenagers who were allegedly killed by suspected Kuki militants. The two students, Hijam Linthoingambi (17) and Phijam Hemjit (20), had gone missing on July 6, during a period of heightened ethnic violence in the state.
Graphic Images Circulate on Social Media
The situation escalated further after graphic images of the deceased bodies of the two students surfaced on social media platforms. One image depicted the lifeless bodies of the students, while another showed them sitting in fear alongside two armed men.
Government Confirms Identities of Deceased Students
The Manipur government has since confirmed the identities of the deceased students, stating that they are indeed Hijam Linthoingambi and Phijam Hemjit. According to available information, the two students had gone for a ride on July 6 on a KTM bike and had not been seen since.
Summary:
- Mobile internet services have been suspended in Manipur for five days, lasting until October 1, 2023, due to concerns over the spread of disinformation and potential violence incitement on social media platforms.
- Protests erupted in Imphal, Manipur, following the circulation of graphic images of two missing Meitei students who were allegedly killed by suspected Kuki militants.
- The Manipur government has confirmed the identities of the deceased students as Hijam Linthoingambi and Phijam Hemjit, who went missing on July 6, 2023, during ethnic violence in the state.
