Manipur Plunges into Violence Again: Internet Shutdown, Curfew and Section 144 Imposed

National News: Manipur is once again going through a period of unrest. The administration has taken strict measures after violence broke out in the state capital, Imphal, and surrounding districts. Mobile internet services have been suspended for five full days from June 7, and curfew has been imposed in Bishnupur district. Also, prohibitory orders under Section 144 have also been imposed in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, and Kakching districts.

Internet shutdown, curb on rumors

According to the state government, the decision to shut down the internet was taken because rumors and inflammatory videos started spreading rapidly on social media. These could be used by some antisocial elements to incite people's sentiments and create tension between communities. The government said that this step has been taken with the aim of maintaining 'safety of life and property' and 'social peace.'

How did the violence erupt?

The violence started when news came that five people of the Meitei community, including a local commander, had been detained by the police. As soon as the news spread, a crowd of hundreds gathered at the Kwakeithel Police Station in Imphal West and started demanding the release of the detainees. The situation worsened so much that the police had to open fire to control the crowd. At least three people have been injured in this clash, including two journalists.

Security system alert

The state government has taken immediate action to bring the situation under control. Additional deployment of paramilitary forces and police has been done in the affected areas. Continuous patrolling of security forces is going on on the roads and people have been strictly instructed not to leave the house without reason. The government has made it clear that you do not share any information without official confirmation so that the tension does not increase further.

Appeal to the public

The Manipur Police and Administration have appealed to the public to maintain restraint and cooperate in peace. It has also been said that you should not trust any kind of rumor going viral on social media and should not share any inflammatory post.

What's next?

Internet services in the state will remain closed till June 11. The administration is monitoring the situation. If the conditions become normal, curfew and Section 144 can be gradually removed. But at present, Manipur is once again standing at such a juncture where both the administration and the public desperately need restraint to maintain social harmony and peace.