Imphal: The Government of Manipur has extended the temporary suspension of internet and mobile data servicesin five districts citing “prevailing law and order situation.” The decision, in effect from 3 PM on September 15, 2024, until 3 PM on September 20, 2024, affects the districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching.
This order follows a previous suspension enacted on September 10, 2024, under Order No. H-3607/4/2022-HD-HD(Pt.)(i), which halted internet and mobile data services, including Lease Lines, VSATs, Broadbands, and VPN services, for five days. The suspension was initially introduced as a preventive measure amid escalating concerns over the law and order situation in these districts.
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In a follow-up order on September 12, 2024, the state government had conditionally lifted the suspension of internet services for Broadband connections (ILL & FTTH). However, after assessing the ongoing situation, the authorities decided to extend the suspension for mobile data services and certain internet services, excluding the conditional lifting for broadband, for another five days.
The order was issued under the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017, to prevent the spread of misinformation, maintain public safety, and avoid potential unrest.
The government has urged mobile service providers to comply with the directive and requested the public to refrain from activities that might further exacerbate the situation or lead to a continued suspension of services. The extension is subject to review based on future developments.
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The suspension will continue to affect general mobile data and internet services through VPNs and VSATs, but broadband services (ILL & FTTH) will remain operational under the previous conditional lifting order.
This extension underscores the government’s efforts to manage the situation while balancing the public’s access to essential services. Authorities have also emphasized that the order can be reviewed at any point, depending on improvements in the ground situation.
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