The Manipur government has lifted the ban on broadband internet services in five valley districts, four days after imposing a blanket ban on all forms of internet.
Commissioner (Home) N. Ashok Kumar issued a notification stating, "The state government has made a considered decision to lift the suspension in the case of broadband service (ILL and FTTH) conditionally in a liberalised manner, subject to fulfillment of terms and conditions."
The order specifies, "Connection will be through static IP, and the subscriber concerned shall not accept any other connection other than the allowed for the time being." It further adds, "No wifi/hotspots shall be allowed from any of the routers," and subscribers are mandated to enforce blocking of social media and VPNs at the local level.
However, the suspension of mobile internet data will continue as authorities remain concerned about the spread of disinformation and rumours via social media, which could potentially mobilise agitators and demonstrators, leading to further unrest and property damage.
The internet services ban, both broadband and mobile data, was initially imposed from September 10 to September 15 in response to escalating student protests demanding the removal of the Director General of Police (DGP) and the security advisor, accusing them of failing to control militant attacks.
The protests had resulted in clashes with security forces, leaving over 80 people injured, including students and police personnel.
While internet services see partial restoration, normal life in Manipur continues to be severely impacted by an ongoing curfew that has paralysed daily activities and livelihoods across the state.
The curfew, now in its fourth day, was imposed in Imphal West and Imphal East districts to control the violence that erupted during the student-led protests.
Public transportation remains at a standstill, with commercial vehicles barred from the roads. Shops and businesses have shut down, leaving citizens struggling to access essential goods and services.
With markets closed, many residents are relying on limited household supplies, which has intensified the hardships faced by the public.
The curfew has also triggered a spike in the prices of essential commodities, straining household budgets further.
The price of onions has surged from Rs 60 to Rs 70 per kg, garlic from Rs 210 to Rs 240 per kg, and mustard oil now costs Rs 180 per litre, up from Rs 170. Other essentials like sugar, pulses, and palm oil have also seen significant price hikes, making it harder for families to cope.
Though government offices remain open, attendance is thin as employees face commuting challenges due to movement restrictions. Hospitals are also witnessing a lower patient turnout, and the supply of essential medical goods is delayed, causing additional concerns.
Meanwhile, in ongoing security operations, forces recovered a 7.5-foot country-made rocket in the densely forested Shejang area of Churachandpur district, Manipur Police reported.
The operations also resulted in the seizure of a modified M-16 rifle, a large country-made mortar, a medium-size country-made mortar, three medium bomb launchers, four bomb launchers, and three bombs.
The dual impact of the broadband ban and the curfew has left Manipur's residents grappling with uncertainty, while security forces continue to maintain vigil to prevent further violence.
Follow us
