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📍 Manipur in Crisis: Internet Shutdowns and Civil Unrest Grip the State

June 8, 2025 – Manipur, India:

The northeastern state of Manipur has once again found itself at the center of a growing crisis. Over the past few days, tensions have escalated sharply following the arrest of a key figure from a Meitei group known as Arambai Tenggol. What began as protests has now snowballed into widespread unrest, prompting the state government to implement a complete internet shutdown across five districts.

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🔌 Internet Blackout Across Five Districts

In a bid to control the situation, the Manipur government has suspended mobile internet, dongle-based data, VSAT, VPNs, and bulk SMS services in five “valley” districts: Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching. The shutdown, which started at 11:45 PM on June 7, is expected to continue for at least five days.

The official reason for this sweeping move? To prevent the spread of inflammatory content, fake news, and hate speech across social media platforms — all of which have contributed to mob violence and communal tension in recent months.

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🔥 Arrest Sparks Fresh Protests

The tipping point came with the arrest of a leader from Arambai Tenggol, a controversial Meitei civil group. His apprehension by local security forces triggered massive backlash, especially in Imphal West, where thousands poured into the streets. Protesters set tires ablaze, blocked roads, and clashed with police in several areas including Kwakeithel and Uripok.

At least three people, including two journalists, were injured in the chaos. Police reportedly fired warning shots to disperse the crowd, which only intensified tensions.

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🚫 Curfews and Section 144 Imposed

To contain the unrest, the district administration has imposed curfews in Bishnupur, and restrictions on public gatherings under Section 144 CrPC in the remaining affected districts. Authorities are on high alert to prevent escalation and any potential communal flare-ups.

State officials have appealed to the public to remain calm, while simultaneously cautioning against forwarding unverified information online.

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🏛️ Political and Legal Landscape

Since May 2023, President’s Rule has been in effect in Manipur due to ongoing ethnic clashes and administrative instability. Despite efforts by central and state agencies, peace remains fragile. The latest unrest only underscores how delicate the balance is.

The internet shutdown was issued under the Telecom Suspension Rules of 2017, a legal mechanism that allows states to suspend digital communication services in the event of a public emergency or safety threat.

However, critics argue that these shutdowns often infringe on basic rights, hamper education, health services, banking, and commerce. Human rights organizations have called for better transparency and accountability in how and when such measures are enforced.

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🌐 The Human Side of the Shutdown

While the government’s intent may be rooted in public safety, the blanket ban on internet services affects millions. Small businesses that depend on digital payments have come to a halt. Students preparing for competitive exams are unable to access online study material. Doctors and medical staff face difficulty coordinating services.

The irony is hard to ignore: in trying to curb violence spread through digital means, authorities have also cut off critical lifelines for common citizens.

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🔍 What's Next?

As Manipur reels from yet another bout of unrest, the spotlight is on both the state machinery and civil society to bring calm and order. The next few days will be crucial — not just for Manipur, but for the Indian government’s broader strategy on digital freedom, civil rights, and regional peacekeeping.

Will the internet shutdown calm the unrest, or only push tensions underground until they erupt again? That remains to be seen.

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Stay tuned for more updates as the story develops. If you are from the region and wish to share your experience, please leave a comment below or contact us directly.

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