Imphal: On Wednesday, the Manipur government extended the suspension of internet services in Churachandpur district for five more days amid ongoing tensions. Chief Secretary Dr. Vineet Joshi issued an order stating, “After reviewing the prevailing law and order situation in Churachandpur district, the state government has decided to continue the suspension of internet services and services through VPN throughout the entire revenue jurisdiction of Churachandpur district.”
The home department’s order also instructed mobile service providers to ensure compliance with the directive.
While the Manipur government had restored mobile internet services in most parts of the state, including Churachandpur, on December 3, 2023, an exception was made for mobile towers catering to services within a 2 km radius along adjoining violence-hit districts. However, on February 16, the state government temporarily suspended internet services in Churachandpur district. This decision followed mob violence sparked by the suspension of a police head constable, who was allegedly seen posing with armed men and village volunteers in a viral video. Protesters demanded the reinstatement of the policeman, claiming bias in the suspension.
The violent agitation in Churachandpur resulted in at least two fatalities and left over 30 others injured due to firing by security forces attempting to control the enraged mob, which tried to storm government complexes and offices of the DC and SP of Churachandpur district. The mob also set fire to the offices of the DC and SP, along with vehicles parked in the government office premises.
Also Read: Meghalaya CM plans to turn state into $10 billion economy with ‘Mission 10’