Manipur govt lifts conditional broadband ban over security concerns

Manipur authorities have lifted a temporary ban on broadband services, officials said on Friday. The decision comes three days after five districts in the valley were put under internet lockdown.

As per the notification by Commissioner (Home) N. Ashok Kumar, the government decision allows conditional resumption of broadband services. The conditions state that static IP connections are mandatory and no other connections are allowed for now. It also requires subscribers to disable Wi-Fi/hotspots and enforce local blocking of social media and VPNs.

Despite the broadband relaxation, mobile internet data remains suspended over fears of spreading misinformation that could incite violence. The initial shutdown, from September 10 to 15, came in response to protests over alleged negligence by the DGP and the security adviser that led to injuries among students and police. Meanwhile, security forces have reported recovering weapons, including a domestically-made rocket and mortars, during an operation in Churachandpur district.

(Based on information from the agency.)