GUWAHATI: The Manipur government has decided to prolong the ban on mobile internet services within the state's territorial jurisdiction for an additional three days, extending until 7:45 PM on November 18.
The Commissioner (Home) of the state government issued an order on Monday, citing the ongoing examination and assessment of the prevailing law and order situation.
Notably, the government had earlier initiated the opening of select mobile towers in district headquarters unaffected by violence on a trial basis, in compliance with the High Court of Manipur's directive. The government is contemplating the possibility of opening more mobile towers in additional district headquarters on a trial basis, contingent on the evolving law and order conditions.
However, this decision has faced opposition from six prominent student bodies in the state, including the Manipuri Students' Federation, Democratic Students' Alliance of Manipur, Kangleipak Students' Association, Students' Union of Kangleipak, and Apunba Ireipakki Maheiroi Sinpang Lup. In a joint statement, these student organisations demanded the immediate lifting of the existing ban on mobile internet services, highlighting the inconvenience faced by students.
The student bodies emphasised that the continued ban on mobile internet services is impeding educational activities and causing substantial losses in various sectors. They urged the government to restore mobile internet services promptly.
