Imphal, Manipur: The Manipur government has suspended mobile internet services in the state for five days, starting from September 27, 2023, 7:45 PM and ending on October 1, 2023, 7:45 PM. The order was issued on September 26, 2023, citing the need to maintain law and order in the state.
The order states that the suspension is necessary to prevent the spread of misinformation and rumors, which could incite violence and unrest in the state. The order also states that the suspension is temporary and will be lifted as soon as the situation improves.
This is the second time in 2023 that the Manipur government has suspended internet services in the state. The previous suspension was imposed in May 2023, following ethnic violence in the state. The suspension was lifted in July 2023, but only for broadband services.
The suspension of internet services has been met with criticism from many quarters. Human rights activists and journalists have argued that the suspension is a violation of the right to freedom of expression and access to information. They have also argued that the suspension has a negative impact on businesses and educational institutions.
The Manipur government has defended its decision to suspend internet services, arguing that it is necessary to maintain law and order in the state. However, the government has not provided any evidence to suggest that the suspension of internet services has been effective in preventing violence and unrest.
The suspension of internet services in Manipur is a worrying development. It is important to note that the internet is an essential tool for communication and information sharing. Suspending internet services deprives people of their right to freedom of expression and access to information. It also has a negative impact on businesses and educational institutions.
It is hoped that the Manipur government will lift the suspension of internet services as soon as possible. In the meantime, it is important for the government to ensure that the suspension does not have a negative impact on people's rights and freedoms.
