Disturbing Unrest in Manipur: Curfew, Internet Shutdown After Protests

A sudden internet shutdown and curfew in Bishnupur followed violent protests in Manipur’s Imphal valley on June 7–8, 2025. This action, triggered by the detention of a Meitei organisation leader, underscores deepening unrest. This article explores the developments, their causes, and far-reaching implications of the internet shutdown.

What sparked the protests?

Late on Saturday evening, reports emerged of the arrest of a leader and five volunteers from Arambai Tenggol, a prominent Meitei outfit, during a security operation in the Kwakeithel area of Imphal West. In response, angry protesters torched tyres, blocked roads across Tiddim Road and Uripok, and stormed police premises demanding their release. Clashes ensued between protesters and security forces, leaving civilians and journalists injured.

Government Response: Internet Shutdown

To curb the spread of inflammatory content and misinformation via social media, the Manipur administration, led by Home Commissioner N. Ashok Kumar, imposed a five-day internet shutdown across five valley districts—Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur—starting around 11:45 pm on June 7. The order disables mobile data, VSAT, and VPN services, citing imminent threats to public safety.

Curfew and Section 144 Orders

Alongside the network blackout, a strict curfew was enforced in Bishnupur from 11 pm, while Section 144 bans assembly of more than five people in the other four districts. The aim: to restore order amid mounting tension.

Impact on Daily Life

The internet shutdown has severely disrupted daily life—impairing communication, hampering businesses, and affecting emergency services. Residents in Imphal have reported difficulty contacting relatives, accessing vital services, or receiving verified updates, heightening stress and fear.

The Bigger Picture: Ethnic Tensions

These events unfold against the backdrop of prolonged 2023–2025 ethnic violence between the Meitei majority in the valley and Kuki-Zo tribes in the hills. Over 250 fatalities, thousands of displaced persons, and widespread property damage have marked this period. The renewed protests signal an erosion of fragile calm.

The Role of Internet Shutdowns in India

India leads global tallies in internet shutdowns—with 771 incidents between 2016 and 2023—and Manipur frequently features in this list. While framed as tools to prevent the spread of hate speech, these shutdowns often inflict serious economic, educational, and social costs. Experts estimate shortages in productivity and disruption of healthcare and banking sectors during such blackouts.

Critics Question Effectiveness

Civil society groups and digital rights advocates argue that a sweeping internet shutdown may suppress both misinformation and legitimate discourse. They claim alternative approaches—like real-time content moderation—could be less disruptive and more targeted.

Looking Ahead

• Monitoring and Verdicts: Central security forces are observing developments amid ongoing unrest.
• Call for Dialogue: Political and community leaders are urging calm and open communication channels to negotiate a peaceful resolution.
• Reinstate Connectivity? The government will likely review the suspension as tension eases over the coming days.