Curfew and Internet Shutdown in Manipur Amid Deadly Ethnic Violence
The northeastern Indian state of Manipur has recently imposed strict curfews and a five-day internet shutdown across multiple districts following deadly clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The measures aim to quell unrest and prevent misinformation from inflaming tensions. 1. What Sparked the Crackdown Tensions escalated after authorities arrested a leader from the Meitei militant group Arambai Tenggol, sparking violent protests across Imphal East, Imphal West and valley districts. Demonstrators burned tyres and barricaded roads in retaliation. 2. Curfew and Internet Blockade Explained Curfew: Enforced across at least five to seven valley districts to restrict movement and reduce clashes. Internet Shutdown: Mobile data, broadband, VPNs, and satellite internet blocked from June 7 11:45 PM for five days—a move aimed at disrupting incitement via social media. 3. Security Forces’ Response Police and paramilitary units used tear gas, live rounds, and shoot-on-sight orders […]