Manipur government bans circulation of photos, videos showing violence

• Image Credit: Google

• Oct 12, 2023 | Dhupali Das

The Manipur government has taken a stern stand against the circulation of videos and images depicting violence and property damage...

Digital Desk: The Manipur government has taken a stern stand against the circulation of videos and images depicting violence and property damage within the state. In an order issued on Wednesday night, authorities declared that those found responsible for sharing such content will face severe legal consequences.

The move comes in response to the alarming spread of disturbing videos and images on various social media platforms, which have been fueling tensions in the region. Notably, a video surfaced showing two Meitei youths being shot at close range and subsequently buried by individuals speaking the Kuki language. Despite the video's widespread dissemination, the exact location of the incident remains unknown.

The order issued by the Manipur Home Department stated, "The state government views very seriously and with utmost sensitivity the reported spread of videos and images depicting violent activities, inflicting harm or injury to anyone or damage to private and public properties through various social media platforms, which may aggravate the law and order situation in the state.

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The government's decision to restrict the sharing of such content is seen as a proactive measure to restore normalcy in the state. Citizens are encouraged to report any possession of such videos or images to their nearest superintendent of police, irrespective of jurisdiction.

The order makes it clear that any violation will be met with legal action, including prosecution under the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act. Those responsible for misusing technology to disseminate violent imagery will face the full weight of the law.

This crackdown follows a series of events that have rocked Manipur in recent months. In September, mass protests erupted in the Imphal Valley after images of two missing youths' bodies appeared on social media. The protests led to a crackdown by security forces and police, resulting in the injuries of over 100 students, mostly girls.

In response, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) dispatched a team to investigate the incident, leading to the subsequent arrest of four individuals, who were transported to Guwahati for further investigation and legal procedures.

The northeastern state of Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki tribes since May 3, 2023. The violence initially erupted in response to demands by the Meiteis for tribe status. With this new order, the government hopes to mitigate further unrest and restore peace in the region.