The order, issued by the Governor of Manipur under Rule 2 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services...
Digital Desk: On December 3, the Manipur State Government announced the lifting of the internet shutdown in most areas of the state, citing an improvement in law and order.
The decision follows a lengthy suspension of mobile data services that began on September 26, 2023 and lasted for an extended time.
The order, issued by the Governor of Manipur under Rule 2 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017, was first imposed for five days but was later extended due to the volatile conditions in the region.
The current decision to suspend the internet shutdown, on the other hand, applies to the majority of the state, offering relief to the general population who had been inconvenienced during the longer suspension period.
The government cited the reported improvement in peace and order as a crucial factor in loosening the restrictions.
Despite the removal of the overall internet blackout, certain conflict regions continue to be restricted. Mobile towers serving services within a 2-kilometer radius between districts, including Chandel and Kakching, Churachandpur and Bishnupur, Churachandpur and Kakching, Kangpokpi and Imphal West, Kangpokpi and Imphal East, Kangpokpi and Thoubal, and Tengnoupal and Kakching, will remain closed.
The government directive, which takes effect immediately, seeks to strike a compromise between public safety and the restoration of routine. It requires all mobile service providers to comply with the new laws, while internet users are advised to avoid acts that may result in future bans.
The suspension of mobile towers serving certain combat zones is scheduled to last until 7:45 p.m. on December 18, 2023.
