New Delhi: In a recent development, the Manipur government has lifted the suspension on broadband internet services in five districts. The districts affected by this decision include Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching. However, mobile internet services continue to be restricted.Officials confirmed the restoration of broadband internet services in the aforementioned districts on Thursday. This move follows a review of the temporary suspension, which had impacted various sectors and professional activities. The decision aims to alleviate the disruption caused to daily operations and ensure that residents in these areas can regain their access to essential online services.Authorities extend mobile internet ban to prevent spread of false rumourDespite the lifting of the broadband internet suspension, mobile internet data services remain restricted. The government has decided to keep these restrictions in place due to concerns about the spread of disinformation and false rumors via social media. According to N Ashok Kumar, Commissioner (Home), “The state government decided to keep suspension of mobile internet data as there are still apprehensions of having spread of disinformation and false rumors through various social media platforms. These could facilitate and/or mobilize mobs of agitators and demonstrators, leading to potential loss of life and damage to property through arson, vandalism, and other forms of violence.”What prompted the initial internet suspension in ManipurThe initial internet suspension, which began on September 10 and lasted for five days, was implemented as a precautionary measure. The Home Departments order stated, “In exercise of the powers conferred under Rule 2 of Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017 and having satisfied that the situation is likely to cause serious disturbances to public order, the suspension was ordered.”The suspension was intended to prevent the misuse of social media for spreading hate speech and inflammatory content, which could exacerbate the already tense situation in the state.
