Manipur Enforces Curfew, Cuts Internet Amid Rising Ethnic Violence
New Delhi: Manipur’s state authorities have imposed an indefinite curfew and blocked internet access following intense student protests calling for peace, triggered by a new wave of ethnic clashes. The unrest, which has gripped the northeastern state for over a year, has seen tensions escalate between the Hindu-majority Meitei and Christian Kuki communities.
KEEP READING
The state’s Home Ministry has issued a notice to shut down all internet and mobile data services for five days to control the growing turmoil. The move is aimed at preventing the spread of hate speech and violent imagery on social media platforms.
Escalating Violence and Civil Unrest
The conflict in Manipur, located on India’s border with Myanmar, has led to periodic violence for more than a year. Tensions between the Meitei and Kuki groups have heightened, primarily over economic privileges, government jobs, and education quotas. Despite heavy military deployment, violence has continued, claiming at least nine lives in the last ten days.
Protesters Demand Action
Protests turned violent earlier this week, with student-led demonstrations demanding peace and government intervention. On Monday, students clashed with security forces, hurling stones and plastic bottles. Some demonstrators even seized arms from the police and fired back. The state capital, Imphal, saw hundreds defy curfews and demand that security forces take immediate action against Kuki armed groups, held responsible for the latest attacks.
Internet Ban and Security Measures
Authorities responded by suspending internet services until Sunday to curb the spread of misinformation, with curfews imposed in three districts. Meanwhile, student leader Ch Victor Singh has given the state’s governor 24 hours to meet their demands, which include the dismissal of senior police officials blamed for failing to control the violence.
Authorities are urging protesters to remain peaceful and are continuing investigations into the recent attacks. So far, more than 250 people have lost their lives, and thousands have been displaced since the ethnic conflict erupted in May last year.
Follow for more information.
