Imphal: The Government of Manipur has suspended internet services for five days, effective from 3:00 PM on September 10, 2024, until 3:00 PM on September 15, 2024, pending confirmation by the Competent Authority within 24 hours. Exceptions have been made for specific cases exempted and whitelisted by the State Government.
An order signed by the Joint Secretary, Government of Manipur, cited the prevailing law and order situation in the state as the reason for the suspension. There are concerns that anti-social elements might exploit social media to spread images, hate speech, and videos that could incite public unrest and further deteriorate the situation.
The order highlighted the imminent danger of loss of life, damage to public or private property, and widespread disturbances to public tranquillity and communal harmony due to the circulation of inflammatory material and false rumours via social media, messaging services, SMS, and dongles.
The suspension aims to thwart the activities of anti-national and anti-social elements, maintain peace and communal harmony, and prevent any potential loss of life or property.
The order emphasized the need to curb the spread of disinformation and false rumors through social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, on various electronic devices such as tablets, computers, and mobile phones, as well as the use of bulk SMS for mobilizing agitators and demonstrators, which could lead to arson, vandalism, and other violent activities.
