In Imphal, the Manipur administration, on this Wednesday, prolonged the cessation of internet services in Churachandpur district for a span of five days due to the ongoing turmoil in the region, stemming from an incident involving a law enforcement officer.

According to an order from the home department, issued by Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi, “Upon a thorough evaluation of the existing law and order scenario in Churachandpur district, the state government has opted to maintain the suspension of internet services and VPN operations across the entire revenue jurisdiction of Churachandpur district.”

Mobile service providers have also been instructed to diligently adhere to this directive. The government initially imposed a temporary hiatus on internet services starting February 16.

Following the suspension of a head constable, a tumultuous event unfolded on February 15, resulting in at least two fatalities and 30 individuals sustaining injuries due to gunfire by security forces. A mob forcefully entered a government complex, housing the offices of the superintendent of police and deputy commissioner, setting vehicles ablaze, and vandalizing properties.

The catalyst for this upheaval was a purported video showing the police officer in question alongside armed individuals. Protesters are vociferously demanding the reinstatement of the suspended head constable, contending that his disciplinary action was unjust.