Manipur Government Suspends Internet Services in Five Districts Amid Fresh Unrest

Government Imposes Five-Day Internet Ban in Key Districts

In response to escalating tensions and potential threats to public order, the Manipur Government has suspended internet and mobile data services, including VSAT and VPN, in five districts for five days. The affected areas are Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur. The suspension took effect from 11:45 PM on June 7, 2025, as per an official order issued by Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home), N Ashok Kumar.

Cited Reasons: Threat of Disinformation and Communal Violence

The suspension order emphasized the apprehension of misuse of social media platforms by anti-social elements to spread hate speech, inflammatory videos, and disinformation. Authorities warned such content could incite public unrest, potentially leading to loss of life, damage to property, and disruption of communal harmony.

The directive noted that there exists an imminent danger to public and private property as well as public tranquillity, and preventive action is necessary. The use of platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) to mobilize mobs or incite violence through bulk messaging was particularly highlighted as a concern.

Curfew Imposed in Bishnupur; Law and Order Worsens After Arrest

Following the arrest of a leader of the Meitei outfit Arambai Tenggol, protests erupted in Imphal East and Imphal West districts. Demonstrators blocked roads in Kwakeithel and Uripok, setting tyres and furniture ablaze while demanding the leader’s release.

As a result, a total curfew was enforced in Bishnupur district. Videos circulating on social media show BJP MP Leishemba Sanajaoba confronting security forces, offering to be arrested alongside another MLA if arrests of local leaders continued. The confrontation has added fuel to the ongoing unrest.

Crackdown on Militant Groups; Weapons Recovered

The internet shutdown also coincides with an intensified security operation. According to Manipur Police, three militants from banned groups—Kangleipak Communist Party (People’s War Group) and United People's Party of Kangleipak (UPPK)—were arrested. Search operations yielded a cache of weapons, IEDs, and mortars from multiple districts.

Ongoing Ethnic Conflict: Background of the Crisis

The situation remains deeply volatile due to the ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which have plagued the state since May 2023. The violence has so far claimed over 260 lives. Amid continued breakdown of administrative control, President’s Rule was imposed in February 2025 following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh.

Legal Basis of the Suspension Order

The order was passed under Rule 2 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017. It was issued ex-parte, indicating that the decision was made unilaterally due to the emergent nature of the situation. Violators of the order may face strict legal consequences, the government warned.

Conclusion: A State on Edge

Manipur remains on high alert, with the suspension of digital communication being viewed as a necessary but drastic step to curb further unrest. While the government’s move aims to prevent the mobilization of mobs and the spread of incendiary content, it also highlights the fragile state of law and order and the deep-rooted communal fissures plaguing the region.