Manipur partially withdraws ban on broadband

The Manipur government on Tuesday decided to lift the restrictions on the broadband internet on several conditions but refused to do the same for mobile internet to prevent spread of rumours and disinformation through the use of social media.

A notification issued by state home department said the decision for conditional use of the broadband was taken keeping in mind the suffering of the common people and impact of the ban on business, education and other activities.

The statement said the connections will be only through static IP, and no WiFi or hotspots will be allowed from any routes and systems. It said blocking of the social media websites and VPNs at the local level will be ensured.

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"The user shall have to ensure removal of any existing VPN softwares from the system and not to install any new softwares," it said.

The decision comes a day after students of Manipur University took to the streets in Imphal with a demand for restoration of peace and internet. They said their studies have been severely affected due to the restrictions on the use of the internet.

The ban on mobile and broadband internet was imposed on May 3 when clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities started. The same was extended several times since then citing law-and-order concerns and possibility of use of social media platforms to incite hatred and tension.

Citing a report of Manipur director general of police, the notification said incidents of violence and arson were still being reported from some places in the state.