Following the police’s revelation of the bodies of six Meiteis...
Digital Desk: The Manipur administration has decided to provisionally impose a ban on mobile data services for an additional two days, which has already been banned in seven districts. The step has been taken to prevent the spread of such messages that may lead to inciting further violence in the state, which is already on the verge of communal riots.
These developments have come following the police’s revelation of the bodies of six Meiteis, who had been reported missing and conceivably dead earlier this month. These developments have further worsened the ongoing animosities that have plagued the region for several months between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo tribes. The maelstrom of violence such materials propagating tend to elicit is understood by the responsible authorities; hence, the need to suspend internet facilities to maintain law and order is deemed a good step.
The prohibition of mobile internet service, which commenced on 16 November, is consistent with the other efforts directed towards restoring peace and order. The region still faces challenges in normalizing the situation brought about after conflicts developed between the two groups.
The situation in the country seems to be one of enhanced vigilance, ready to adapt to any constraints but determined to ensure public safety. It is also worth noting that the restriction on the use of the internet will remain in force as the relevant government commentary indicates that the order is being restored in the respective area.
