India: Officials restrict telecommunications and gatherings in Manipur due to ongoing civil unrest, as of Aug. 7

Event

Officials have restricted telecommunications, including mobile internet services, in Manipur through at least Aug. 11 in response to ongoing civil unrest. Authorities have also imposed Section 144 orders in the Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts through early October. The order bans gatherings of five or more people. The All Tribal Student Union Manipur has been striking and protesting for several days to demand that the Manipur (Hill Areas) Autonomous District Council Bill 2021 be tabled in the local assembly. The bill, if passed, would provide greater autonomy to tribal areas. Clashes were reported between student protesters and the police in Imphal late Aug. 6, leaving 30 people injured.

Further protests, strikes, and blockades are likely in the coming days. Security personnel will almost certainly deploy to manage or disperse gatherings, which could spark clashes with demonstrators. Disruptions to ground travel and business operations are likely near protest sites.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near gatherings. Reconfirm all business appointments. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, as protesters may react violently. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure.