• Manipur govt extends internet suspension for 5 more days to maintain peace

    Regional
    Manipur govt extends internet suspension for 5 more days to maintain peace

    The decision to stop internet service in Manipur  has been made to maintain peace, public order, and the peaceful cohabitation of the state's citizens, 

    Digital Desk: The government of Manipur decided to extend the Internet services suspension for five more days. Internet services will be suspended in the violence-hit state till June 30. This comes at a time when there are concerns that people might misuse social media sites and cause lawlessness.

    In a letter dated June 24, the director general of police (DGP) of Manipur noted the ongoing occurrence of instances that could potentially disturb public peace and communal harmony. It also emphasised how important it is to stop hate speech, inciting images, and inciting videos from spreading through social media because they could have a negative impact on the state's law and order situation.

    The authorities also expressed concern about the circulation of controversial materials and false rumours that have the possibility of causing fatalities, damage to both public and private property, as well as disturbances to public peace and harmony. By limiting the spread of misinformation and false rumours via social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other electronic devices like tablets, computers, and mobile phones, the government also hopes to maintain peace, communal harmony, and public order. 

    Additionally, bulk SMS services will continue to be temporarily prohibited to stop the group of agitators and protesters.

    In accordance with Rule 2 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017, the government decided to extend the suspension of mobile data services, internet/data services (including broadband), and internet/data services through VSATS of Bharatnet Phase-II, excluding those services from which they have granted an exemption or have been given permission on an individual basis by the competent authority.

    Additionally, the orders must be followed by all mobile service providers.

    The decision to stop internet service in Manipur  has been made to maintain peace, public order, and the peaceful cohabitation of the state's citizens, 

    The order will remain effective for the next five days and will come into effect immediately and until 3 pm on June 30.  The directive also indicated that those who violate it would be subject to legal penalties.