Manipur imposes internet ban as ethnic tensions flare up

The government of Manipur has enacted a five-day suspension of internet services throughout the state, commencing on September 10, 2024, and concluding on September 15. This measure is a response to rising tensions and persistent protests, particularly among students advocating for governmental action regarding recent drone and missile strikes that have exacerbated security issues in the area.

The government has indicated that this suspension is necessary to curtail the dissemination of misinformation and incendiary content via social media, which could potentially incite additional violence. In a statement released by the Home Department, officials expressed concern that “anti-social elements” might take advantage of social media platforms to spread hate speech and incite public disorder. The directive specifically highlighted the dangers of potential loss of life and property damage stemming from the spread of inflammatory content and false information.

The protests were ignited by recent violent occurrences, including a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) attack in Moirang, which resulted in casualties and injuries. This incident, along with subsequent confrontations between students and security personnel, has further escalated the already precarious situation in Manipur, where ethnic strife between the predominantly Hindu Meitei community and the mainly Christian Kuki community has been ongoing for over a year. The state has experienced considerable unrest, with over 200 fatalities and thousands displaced since May 2023 due to ethnic violence.

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s Response to Manipur Conflict Questioned

On September 9, students organized demonstrations demanding accountability for the violence and the safeguarding of their community’s territorial rights. Clashes ensued when protesters attempted to march towards the Raj Bhavan, prompting police to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowds. In conjunction with the internet suspension, curfews have been instituted in several districts, including Imphal East and West, to uphold public order. Educational institutions have also been closed, with all government and private schools remaining shut.

The central government has come under fire for its perceived lack of action in response to the rising violence in Manipur. Although local leaders, including Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, have denounced the assaults and urged for decisive measures, there has been a conspicuous absence of direct involvement from the central authorities. This inaction raises questions about the adequacy of the response to the ongoing turmoil, particularly as the violence has escalated dramatically with the advent of drone warfare, indicating a significant shift in the tactics employed by armed factions.

Criticism has also been directed at the central government for failing to allocate additional resources or implement more vigorous strategies to mitigate the violence, prompting doubts regarding its dedication to resolving the issues in Manipur.

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has pledged to take a strong stance against such violence, highlighting the importance of solidarity among the people of Manipur to counteract hatred and division. He has convened several meetings with the Governor and other officials to formulate plans for restoring peace and has advocated for targeted operations against militant strongholds.

In response to the threats posed by armed groups utilizing sophisticated weaponry, the government has dispatched extra security personnel and anti-drone technology. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of Singh’s leadership is being questioned, as the violence persists and public trust in the government’s capacity to handle the crisis diminishes.

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