IMPHAL: In a significant development, the Manipur government officially lifted the suspension on mobile data services in the state on September 23, 2023. This decision comes after months of unrest and ethnic violence that had led to the suspension of internet services in the region since May 3, 2023.
The initial order to suspend mobile data services in Manipur was issued on May 3, 2023, under Rule 2 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017. This suspension was initially intended to last for five days and was based on a report submitted by the Director General of Police, Manipur, highlighting the volatile law and order situation in the state.
However, as the situation continued to remain tense, the suspension was extended multiple times, effectively denying residents access to essential mobile data services for several months. This decision had a profound impact on the daily lives of the people in Manipur and hindered communication and information-sharing in the region.
The recent order to revoke the suspension of internet services in Manipur was issued by the state's Governor, Anusuiya Uikey, on September 23, 2023. The order cited positive developments in the security situation, as reported by the Director General of Police, Manipur. According to the report, incidents of violence had significantly decreased, and the overall law and order situation had improved in the state.
The order stated, "Whereas the Director General of Police, Manipur, 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, mobile data, and MMS services in the territorial jurisdiction of the state of Manipur."
As a result of this positive assessment of the situation, the Manipur Governor ordered the restoration of mobile data services, including MMS, over mobile service providers in the state. The revocation of the suspension came into effect on September 23, 2023. Mobile service providers operating in Manipur were directed to ensure compliance with this order, effectively allowing residents to regain access to vital mobile internet data services.
The decision to lift the suspension is expected to have a profound impact on the lives of Manipur's residents. Access to mobile data services is essential for communication, information dissemination, and staying connected with the rest of the world. The months-long suspension had isolated the region and hindered the flow of information.
It's worth noting that the ethnic clashes in Manipur, which began in May 2023, had resulted in a significant loss of life and injuries. As per reports, at least 175 people lost their lives, and another 1,108 individuals sustained injuries during the four-month-long period of violence. Additionally, 32 people remain missing, raising concerns about their safety and well-being.
The Manipur government's decision to lift the suspension on mobile data services signifies a positive turning point in the region's ongoing efforts to restore peace and normalcy. The improved law and order situation, as reported by the Director General of Police, has paved the way for the reinstatement of essential mobile internet services, benefiting the residents of Manipur.
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