Manipur government revokes internet suspension in Ukhrul, Kangpokpi and Kamjong after reviewing law and order following Tangkhul-Kuki violence.
Manipur government revokes internet suspension in Ukhrul, Kangpokpi and Kamjong [Photo: X]
The Manipur government has revoked the temporary suspension of internet services in three districts after reviewing the prevailing law and order situation. Authorities restored mobile data, broadband, VPN and VSAT services on Friday, bringing relief to residents, businesses and institutions affected by the shutdown.
Officials confirmed the decision in Imphal, stating that the administration reassessed security conditions before withdrawing the order. The state had earlier suspended in parts of Manipur following violence that led to widespread damage to property.
The government imposed the internet ban after violence escalated in Litan village in Ukhrul district, where at least 50 houses were reportedly burnt down. Tensions flared between members of the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities after a scuffle on February 7.
During the altercation in Litan village, a man from Sakibung village, Sterling Shimray, sustained injuries. Authorities acted swiftly to prevent the spread of misinformation and inflammatory content online, which often intensifies tensions during communal unrest.
The suspension covered the entire revenue jurisdiction of Ukhrul district for five days starting at 11:30 am on February 10. The government also extended the ban to the Lhungtin sub-division of Kangpokpi district and the Phungyar sub-division of Kamjong district from 5:30 pm on February 10.
Authorities said they imposed the restrictions as a preventive measure to maintain peace and curb the circulation of provocative messages.
The suspension affected three key districts:
The order halted mobile internet data services along with broadband connectivity, VPN access and VSAT services. Schools, offices, banks and digital businesses reported inconvenience during the suspension period.
Residents said the internet shutdown disrupted online classes, financial transactions and communication with relatives outside the state. Local institutions also faced operational challenges due to connectivity issues.
After reviewing the situation, the Manipur home department lifted the suspension. The official statement said:
“after reviewing the prevailing law and order situation in the state along with the inconveniences faced by the public and institutions due to internet service suspension and decided to revoke any order for suspension of internet service in the State,”
The announcement was made through a government order signed by joint secretary (Home), Government of Manipur, Mayengbam Veto Singh.
The government directed all internet service providers to restore services immediately and ensure full compliance with the revised order. Authorities also issued a public appeal urging citizens to use digital platforms responsibly.
Officials stated that internet users must avoid sharing unverified or inflammatory content that could disturb public peace. They emphasized that the administration may reimpose restrictions if the situation demands it in the interest of public safety.
Security forces increased deployment in sensitive areas after the violence. Local authorities conducted patrols and held meetings with community leaders to calm tensions. Officials believe these measures helped stabilize the situation.
While the damage to homes in Litan village caused concern, authorities confirmed that the situation has remained under control in recent days. The administration continues to monitor developments closely to prevent further clashes.
The restoration of internet services signals the government’s confidence that conditions have improved sufficiently to allow digital communication without risking renewed unrest.
Governments often suspend internet services during periods of violence to prevent rumour-mongering and the rapid spread of provocative content. However, such measures also affect essential services and everyday life.
In Manipur, the recent suspension highlighted the delicate balance between maintaining security and ensuring public convenience. Digital connectivity plays a vital role in banking, education, healthcare coordination and emergency communication.
With services now restored, residents hope stability will continue, and no further restrictions will become necessary.
Authorities have asked citizens to cooperate in maintaining peace. The government continues to assess the situation and has warned that any misuse of internet services could prompt stricter measures in the future.
For now, the lifting of the suspension brings relief to thousands of residents across Ukhrul, Kangpokpi and Kamjong districts who depend on uninterrupted connectivity for daily activities.
