After almost 143 days, ban on internet lifted in strife torn Manipur

After almost 143 days, the ban on internet was lifted on Saturday in strife torn Manipur. Internet services were banned immediately after the ethnic violence broke out in the state on May 3 and were periodically extended considering the prevailing law and order situation.

T. Ranjit Singh, Commissioner (Home) Manipur stated, “Whereas, an order in exercise of the powers conferred under Rule 2 of Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017 to suspend mobile data services in the territorial jurisdiction of State of Manipur was issued on 03-05-2023 for a period of 5(five) days based on the report furnished by Director General of Police, Manipur in connection with the volatile law and order situation in the State of Manipur, and which was extended from time to time and remains in force till today.”

He added “Whereas, the Director General of Police, Manipur by a letter dated 22-09-2023 informed that the incidents of violence have comparatively lessened in the State; and law and order situation has improved with the request to relax the suspension of internet data, MMS services in the territorial jurisdiction of State of Manipur in view of the positive development. Now, therefore, the Governor of Manipur is pleased to revoke all orders issued regarding suspension of Mobile data Services under Rules 2 of Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services s (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017 and hereby orders the restoration of MMS over Mobile Service Providers/Mobile internet/ Data services in the territorial jurisdiction of State of Manipur normally with effect from 23-09-2023".


Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh announced that the internet ban in the strife-torn state will be lifted from Saturday.

Earlier responding to the appeal from all sections of people and various organisations, the state government following the Manipur High Court order had partially lifted the ban earlier.

The Manipur High Court last month has asked the state government to find ways to provide mobile internet services to people. Earlier the government has announced whitelisting of mobile numbers for providing internet connectivity.