In a significant development, the Manipur government has announced the lifting of a seven-month-long ban on mobile internet services in the state. The decision comes in the wake of an improvement in the law-and-order situation, signaling a positive step towards restoring normalcy. The initial imposition of the ban in May was a response to ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki tribal communities.
Background:
The ban, which was temporarily lifted on September 23 but reinstated three days later, aimed to curb the spread of inflammatory content on social media. Recent developments indicate a favorable shift in the situation, prompting authorities to ease the restrictions. The decision, however, comes with specific conditions, particularly in border areas of certain districts with a history of violence.
Districts Affected:
The continued suspension of mobile internet services will persist within a 2 km radius along adjoining areas between districts facing heightened tensions. This includes districts like Churachandpur and Bishnupur, Kangpokpi and Imphal West, Kangpokpi and Imphal East, Kangpokpi and Thoubal, as well as Tengnoupal and Kakching. These areas have witnessed various incidents of violence, including gunfights, arson, and abductions over the past seven months.
Peace Agreement and Ongoing Violence:
The decision to lift the ban follows a peace agreement signed between the Centre, Manipur government, and the United National Liberation Force (UNLF), the oldest militant outfit in the state. Despite this positive step, Manipur has witnessed considerable violence, resulting in 182 casualties and displacing over 50,000 people. The government’s move aims to strike a balance between ensuring public safety and addressing the inconveniences faced by the general public during the prolonged ban.
Supreme Court Intervention:
The unrest in Manipur has also affected students, with 284 individuals from Manipur University seeking Supreme Court intervention. These students, displaced to cities like Delhi and Bengaluru, have faced significant academic disruption for six months. Senior Advocate Meenakshi Arora highlighted their plea in court, requesting admission to central universities similar to accommodations provided to Kashmiri migrants. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has directed authorities to address the matter within a week, with a scheduled hearing on December 4.
Conclusion:
As Manipur takes steps to restore normalcy, the decision to lift the mobile internet ban reflects a nuanced approach, considering both security concerns and the well-being of the public. The ongoing peace process and Supreme Court intervention for displaced students underscore the multifaceted challenges faced by the state, emphasizing the need for comprehensive solutions to ensure long-term stability and development.