IT News
Imphal, Dec 8 :
The Federation of Civil Societies Manipur (FOCS) has voiced concerns over the ongoing internet shutdown in the state, which was imposed after a violent incident in Borebekra Sub-Division of Jiribam District on May 3, 2023. The tragic event saw the brutal killings of six people, including three women and three minors, allegedly by Hmar militants. In response to the violence, the state authorities decided to suspend internet services for more than a month.
FOCS has since highlighted the severe impact of the internet ban on both the economic and social sectors of the state. In a statement, the organization pointed out that internet access is essential not only for personal communication but also for the functioning of businesses and professional work. According to FOCS, the disruption of internet services has created significant hardships for local entrepreneurs, professionals, and businesses that rely on the internet for communication, transactions, and operations.
The Federation emphasized that the internet ban has further exacerbated the social and economic problems in Manipur, affecting key sectors such as education, healthcare, and trade. They expressed concern that while the government imposed the ban to maintain law and order, it has failed to account for the broader consequences on the daily lives of the people of Manipur.
FOCS made an urgent appeal to the Manipur government, urging them to lift the internet restrictions where possible, allowing for the restoration of normalcy. The Federation stressed that internet access is critical for communication, access to information, and economic recovery, and called for a more balanced approach to ensuring both security and public welfare. The statement also highlighted the negative impact of the internet ban on the region’s socio-economic stability, noting that it had become an additional barrier to the peace-building process in the state.
