The Manipur government has extended its ban on mobile internet services in five districts for another five days, following a review of the law-and-order situation.
The ban, which affects Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching districts, will remain in place until 3pm on September 20, as authorities attempt to curb the spread of disinformation amid ongoing protests and violence in the region, The Hindustan Times reports.
The decision follows recent protests over the government's handling of violent incidents that began in May last year, causing casualties and displacement.
The authorities fear that internet access could be used to spread rumours, fuelling further unrest.
While mobile internet remains restricted, the state government has partially lifted its ban on broadband services under certain conditions, allowing limited access to essential internet services. However, authorities remain cautious, citing continued risks of misinformation inciting violence.
The internet ban, which has now been in effect for several weeks, has severely impacted daily life in the region, with online transactions disrupted.
On Sunday, the government briefly relaxed curfew restrictions from 5am to 12pm, in the districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, and Bishnupur, allowing residents to buy essential goods. Crowds formed at markets and ATM booths as people rushed to stock up on supplies before the curfew was reimposed.
The curfew was first imposed on September 10 in response to widespread protests by students, who accused the government of inaction in addressing the violence.
Meanwhile, a bomb exploded at the residence of Manipur’s transport minister, Khashim Vashum, on Saturday night in Ukhrul, a town 80 kilometres from Imphal, The Hindu reports.
The minister was not at home during the attack, and no one was injured in the blast, which caused minor damage to the property. Police are investigating the incident, but no group has claimed responsibility.
Conflict in Manipur has deepened ethnic and political divides, with many of the displaced still seeking refuge in relief camps across the state.