ANSAM condemns internet shutdown, assault on former village chairman
Source: Chronicle News Service

Senapati, September 07 2023: All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM), the apex student body representing the Naga community, has called upon the state government to reinstate internet services in the state, while pointing out that shutting down internet service is violation of citizens' fundamental rights.

In a press release, ANSAM expressed concern over the prolonged suspension of internet services in the state.

The internet shutdown was initially intended to curb the spread of rumours, videos, photos, and social media comments amid ongoing ethnic tensions between the Kuki-Zo and Meetei communities.

However, ANSAM argues that more than 120 days without regular internet access, except for a partial lifting for certain broadband users and government offices at exorbitant rates, does not provide a satisfactory solution to the current situation.

The delayed response and lack of sincere intervention from the central government raise concerns about the shutdown's propriety and its potential use as a tool to suppress information and control the narrative surrounding events in Manipur, ANSAM lamented.

The prolonged internet shutdown has had adverse effects on the state, including economic hardships, disruption of communication, limited access to education and research resources, and hindrance to healthcare services.

ANSAM emphasised that the internet is not just a means of communication but also a vital platform for research and information.

The continued shutdown has implications for the entire population, including peace-loving Nagas who are not involved in the ongoing violence, resulting in widespread censorship and the violation of citizens' fundamental rights as enshrined in the Indian constitution.

In light of these concerns, ANSAM appealed to the state government to lift the internet shutdown and restore connectivity by whitelisting accessible websites and permitting specific verified social media websites/apps at designated geographical locations.

In addition to addressing the internet shutdown issue, ANSAM also strongly condemned the assault on Zuina Hotngambou, a former chairman of Lenglong Naga Village, by two Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA) cadres.

The assault took place when Hotngambou refused to give Rs 300 while transporting bananas in a pickup truck with his wife and son.

ANSAM expressed deep concern over this incident, stating that such shameful acts by KRA cadres question the integrity and ideology of their revolutionary movement.

The Naga community has maintained a position pf neutrality during the ongoing ethnic violence, ANSAM said, while warning that their patience should not be mistaken for weakness.

The organisation pledged to take action if such unwarranted and shameful acts against Nagas continue in the future.

ANSAM also called upon concerned leaders and authorities to take appropriate action against the two KRA cadres and ensure that such incidents are not repeated.

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