Curfew Eased in Manipur Amidst Ongoing Ethnic Tensions, Mobile Internet Ban Extended

Manipur authorities have relaxed the curfew in four districts to allow essential purchases amidst ongoing ethnic violence. The mobile internet ban is extended until September 20 to ensure security. Recent protests by students demanded local control over security operations, following escalated attacks between Meitei and Kuki groups.

In response to escalating ethnic violence in Manipur, authorities have partially relaxed the curfew in four affected districts, including Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, and Thoubal. The curfew, initially imposed last Tuesday following intense protests demanding the transfer of unified command to the Manipur government, has been eased from 5 AM to 2 PM daily.

This adjustment allows residents to purchase essential goods like medicines and food. However, the ban on mobile internet has been extended until September 20 to maintain security and prevent the spread of misinformation.

The unrest, which began in May of the previous year between the Meitei and Kuki communities, has recently intensified. Incidents involving drones and rockets have resulted in at least nine fatalities, exacerbating the situation.

Protests in Imphal on September 8 saw thousands of students demanding the handover of security control to local authorities, which led to the curfew imposition.

Union home ministry officials, along with state security advisers and the army, currently oversee the unified command. The state government has warned that public gatherings, protests, and rallies will not be permitted without prior approval.

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While inter-district passenger services have resumed and markets are bustling with activity, the suspension of mobile data services remains in place to mitigate potential security risks.