Manipur Extends Internet Ban Following Deadly Bishnupur Bombing

The Government of Manipur extended the suspension of mobile internet, data services, and VPN access until April 18 across five Imphal valley districts, including Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur. The restrictions follow an April 7 bomb attack in the Bishnupur district that killed two children and injured their mother, an act allegedly carried out by suspected Kuki militants.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N. Ashok Kumar stated that the extension is necessary to prevent the spread of disinformation and the mobilization of mobs. The state government has since handed the investigation of the April 7 attack to the National Investigation Agency.

While digital services remain blocked, District Magistrates have partially relaxed curfews under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. In most affected districts, the relaxation lasts from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., though the window in Bishnupur is shorter, ending at 10 a.m. Residents are prohibited from carrying weapons during these periods.