New Delhi: The Manipur government has withdrawn the temporary suspension of mobile internet services in nine districts, as per an order issued by the State Home Department on Monday. This decision comes after a review of the law and order situation in the affected areas, including Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Jiribam, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Pherzawl.
The order, signed by Commissioner (Home) N Ashok Kumar, urged users to avoid activities that could compromise public order, warning that such actions might lead to future suspensions. Internet services had been suspended since November 16 following the discovery of six bodies in the Jiri and Barak rivers, which triggered unrest.
While broadband services were reinstated on November 19 for essential operations, mobile internet services remained restricted until now.
Ethnic violence and security measures
The state continues to grapple with ethnic violence between Meitei communities in the Imphal Valley and Kuki-Zo groups in the adjoining hills. The unrest, ongoing since May last year, has resulted in over 250 deaths and the displacement of thousands.
To maintain security, the Manipur Police reported intensified search operations and area domination measures. Police also ensured the movement of 373 vehicles carrying essential supplies along National Highway 2 and set up 107 checkpoints across the state.
Supreme Court seeks report on violence
The Supreme Court has sought a sealed report from the Manipur government detailing incidents of arson, trespassing, and encroachments, along with steps taken to address the situation. A bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna has also asked the state to respond to concerns raised by the Justice Gita Mittal Committee regarding the allocation of funds for temporary and permanent housing.
The apex court will review the matter after January 20, 2025.
Protests over missing man
Meanwhile, protests erupted over the disappearance of 56-year-old Laishram Kamalbabu from an army camp in Leimakhong, Kangpokpi district. On Monday, Manipur Police detained three women, including Kamalbabu’s wife, as they attempted to protest outside the Raj Bhawan in Imphal. “They were taken to the City Police Station and later released,” said an official.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh recently announced receiving a “key piece of evidence” regarding Kamalbabu’s disappearance. This evidence, submitted by the Joint Action Committee formed in response to the incident, suggests that he was last seen at the 57 Mountain Division Headquarters in Leimakhong.
