Mobile internet ban extended till October 11
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, October 06 2023:
The government of Manipur has extended the ban on mobile internet services in the state till October 11, citing apprehensions that anti-social elements might use social media to incite violence.
In an order issued on Friday, Commissioner (Home) T Ranjit Singh said, "There is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate video messages inciting the passions of the public which might have serious repercussions for the law and order situation in the state of Manipur".
The ban was initially imposed on September 26, following massive student protests over the killings of a 17-year-old girl student and a 20-year-old youth.
The protests had turned violent, with at least 100 students injured in clashes with the security forces.
The state government had extended the ban on October 6, citing similar concerns about the spread of misinformation and violence on social media.
The ban has been met with criticism from various quarters, including student bodies and civil society groups.
They argue that the ban is disproportionate and has a negative impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.