India: Officials extend mobile internet service suspension in Manipur State through 19:45 Oct. 21 /update 17

Event

As of Oct. 17, authorities have extended their existing statewide suspension of mobile internet services through at least 19:45 Oct. 21; the measure may be extended further if security agencies see fit. Nearly 40,000 security personnel have been deployed across Manipur to maintain public order.

Security deployments and restrictions, as well as protests, will likely persist across Manipur State through October amid ongoing ethnic tensions. Curfews and restrictions on public gatherings remain in force in several parts of the state; authorities could expand existing measures to encompass additional areas depending on changing operational needs. A nightly 17:00-05:00 curfew is in effect until further notice for multiple districts, including tribal areas, Imphal East, Imphal West, Kakching, Thoubal, Jiribam, and Bishnupur. Emergency services remain generally exempt from any curfews.

Demonstrations of varying types have occurred in recent weeks, primarily over demands to detain individuals involved in clashes and to protect community member rights. Popular rally sites include residences of local politicians and security installations, as well as prominent government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Shutdown strikes and highway blockades in tribal-dominated districts such as Chandel, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Pherzawl, and Tengnoupal are likely in the coming days in reaction to recent arrests of tribe members. Roadblocks are negatively impacting the distribution of essential goods, such as fuel and foodstuffs, to Manipur State, especially to and from Imphal Valley. Authorities have attempted to circumvent such blockades by using aircraft and military convoys to deliver essential goods.

Police may conduct mass arrests and use force, including rubber bullets, live ammunition, baton charges, and tear gas, to disperse any demonstrations that materialize. Minor bombings, acts of intimidation, attacks, arson, and vandalism targeting rival groups, security personnel, politicians, and government buildings cannot be ruled out. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely.

Context

On May 3, significant clashes first broke out in Churachandpur District during a rally by the All Tribal Students' Union of Manipur (ATSUM) as a part of statewide demonstrations denouncing the government's proposal to award the majority nontribal Meitei group the Scheduled Tribes (ST) designation. The ST designation provides political, educational, and employment privileges. The ongoing violence has left over 180 people dead, tens of thousands of civilians impacted, and at least 2,000 residences damaged.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of caution if operating in or near Manipur State. Keep away from locations where security personnel appear to be deploying. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Confirm business appointments, transport reservations, deliveries, and road status. Do not check out of accommodations before confirming onward travel. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Heed instructions from authorities.