The Manipur government on Tuesday lifted the suspension on broadband internet conditionally in a “liberalised manner”, nearly 3 months after it was banned due to the ethnic violence in the state.
However, mobile internet will remain suspended, the Home Department said in a notification.
“Connection will be only through static IP and that the subscriber concerned shall not accept any other connection other than allowed for the time being (TSP/ISP shall be held responsible for non-compliance of this condition),” the notification said.
“No Wifi Hotspots shall be allowed from any of the routers and systems using the connection at any cost by the subscriber concerned,” it said.
Blocking of social media websites and VPNs at the local level must be ensured by the subscribers, and log-in IDs and passwords must be changed on a daily basis, the order said. In case of any violation, the subscribers will be punished as per laws, it said.
Manipur government's order to partially restore ban on internet services. |
Manipur people struggle without internet
The government took the decision in view of the suffering of the people as the internet ban affected offices and institutions, and people working from home, besides mobile recharge, LPG cylinder booking, payment of electricity bills, and other online services, the order said.
However, mobile internet will remain suspended as there are still apprehensions about the spread of disinformation and rumours through various social media platforms, besides sending of bulk SMS for mobilisation of mobs, which can cause loss of life or damage to property.
Violence continues across state
Director-General of Police Rajiv Singh reported on Monday that there are “still reports of incidents of violence, attacking and arson of houses and premises, including exchange of firing”, the order said.
A viral video from May 4 of two women being paraded naked by a mob renewed the national attention on Manipur, where violence broke out nearly three months ago, killing over 160 people since then, and injuring hundreds.
