Manipur Suspends Internet In Ukhrul For Five Days After Fresh Violence

In response to escalating tensions, the Manipur government on Tuesday suspended internet and mobile data services across Ukhrul district. The suspension has been imposed for a period of five days.

Police officials said the decision was taken to curb the spread of provocative content online. Such content could further inflame the already volatile situation.

Issuing the order, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N Ashok Kumar stated that authorities feared anti-social elements might exploit social media platforms. These platforms could be used to circulate sensitive images, videos, and messages, potentially triggering further violence.

As a precaution, all forms of internet connectivity, including broadband, VPN, and VSAT services, have been temporarily halted.

Fresh incidents of firing and arson were reported from Litan Sareikhong village, a day after Tangkhul Naga organisations imposed restrictions on the movement of Kuki people in Ukhrul and nearby Kamjong districts.

Police said armed individuals torched more than eight houses, most of which were unoccupied, and fired several rounds in the area.

Officials confirmed that over 30 houses and properties have been destroyed in the village during the past 48 hours.

The violence reportedly followed an alleged assault on a member of the Tangkhul Naga community by individuals from the Kuki community.

Security Forces Step In

Earlier, intense stone-pelting between rival groups on Sunday night forced security forces to intervene using tear gas. Although tensions persist in the hilly region, police said the situation has largely been contained.

Additional security forces, including central paramilitary units, have been deployed in vulnerable locations to prevent further flare-ups.

Curfew and prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, have also been enforced, restricting public movement and activities that could disturb peace.

A joint control room has been established at Litan Police Station to coordinate security operations. It will help in ensuring better coordination among the forces deployed in the area.

Senior officers remain stationed in the region. They are closely supervising developments on the ground.

Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho has been engaging with residents and community leaders. The outreach aims to ease tensions and help restore normalcy in the affected areas.

The Congress party has called for urgent intervention to bring the situation under control.

Congress Legislature Party leader Keisham Meghachandra Singh described the developments as deeply disturbing and urged the government to take firm action, warning that continued violence threatens lives, homes, and communal harmony in Manipur.

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