Manipur Violence: Internet services restored after violence in four districts of Manipur, a step taken on the instructions of the High Court

The Manipur government has lifted the mobile internet ban in four hill district headquarters, security officials said on Thursday. These districts were not affected by caste violence. Internet restrictions have been lifted on a trial basis in Ukhrul, Senapati, Chandel, and Tamenglong district headquarters, he said.

The move comes after the Manipur High Court directed the state government to commission mobile towers on a trial basis in all district headquarters (which were not affected by caste violence). Officials said mobile internet services resumed in four hill district headquarters on Tuesday.

When asked about the restoration of mobile internet services, an official of the Ukhrul district administration said, "Only a few selected mobile towers have been activated in the district headquarters. But the connectivity is poor. The restoration will be done on a trial basis."

At a recent function in Ukhrul, state transport minister Kashim Washum had said that services would resume in the four districts. Mobile internet has been banned in Manipur since May 3 following ethnic clashes, except for a few days in September. Manipur has been in the grip of recurring violence since caste violence first broke out in May. More than 180 people have died since then.

Ethnic clashes have taken place over several grievances by both sides against each other, however, the main point of crisis has been the move to grant Scheduled Tribe status to the Meiteis, which was later withdrawn, and those living in the protected forest area. Attempts were made to oust the tribals.

The Meiteis constitute about 53 percent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley, while the tribals, including the Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 percent and live mainly in the hill districts.

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