Mobile Internet restrictions eased in four district HQs

The Manipur government has made a significant decision by lifting the mobile internet ban in four hill district headquarters that have remained unaffected by ethnic conflicts, according to officials. This move was carried out on a trial basis in the district headquarters of Ukhrul, Senapati, Chandel, and Tamenglong, all of which are predominantly Naga-inhabited areas.

The decision follows a directive from the Manipur High Court, instructing the state government to activate mobile towers on a trial basis in those district headquarters that have not been impacted by the ongoing ethnic clashes. As a result, mobile internet services were resumed in these four hill district headquarters on a recent Tuesday.

An official from the Ukhrul district administration explained that the restoration of mobile internet services has only been implemented in the district headquarters, and while a few selected mobile towers are operational, the connectivity remains poor. This resumption is being executed as a trial to evaluate its feasibility.

During a recent event in Ukhrul, the state’s Transport Minister, Kashim Vashum, had also assured that the services would be reinstated in the four districts. Since May 3, when ethnic clashes first erupted, Manipur had enforced a ban on mobile internet, except for a brief period in September.

The state has experienced recurring bouts of violence due to grievances on both sides, with a central point of contention being the proposal to grant Meiteis Scheduled Tribe status, which was later reversed. There was also an attempt to relocate tribals living in protected forest areas. Meiteis constitute approximately 53% of Manipur’s population and are primarily located in the Imphal Valley, while tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, make up 40% of the population and primarily inhabit the hill districts. The clashes have resulted in a significant loss of life, with over 180 people killed since the conflicts began. This ongoing issue underscores the complexity and challenges associated with ethnic and regional conflicts in the region.