Manipur: Internet ban lifted after 4 months, CM gives 15 days to surrender all arms and ammo

Manipur Govt has requested the Centre to construct a 398km fence along the Manipur-Myanmar border to stop entry of drugs. BRO will start work on 60 km border fencing

After four long months, the ban on internet in Manipur was lifted today. The ban was imposed on May 3 after ethnic violence erupted in the northeastern state.

“The government had suspended mobile internet services on May 3 to check the spread of fake news, propaganda and hate speech. However, with the improvement of the situation, mobile internet services will be restored across the state from today,” Chief Minister N Biren Singh said addressing a press conference in Imphal today morning.

According to Manipur Police data, the violence since May 3, claimed 175 lives, 1,118 people sustained injuries and 32 are missing. At least 5,172 cases of arson — including 4,786 houses and 386 religious places took place. As many as 96 bodies remain unclaimed.

Addressing the media, the CM further said, “free movement regime that allows people residing close to both sides of the India-Myanmar border to venture 16 km deep into each other’s territory without any document” has to stop.

“Our first priority is to stop the illegal influx from Myanmar, and for that, we need immediate fencing. The Union Minister already orally sanctioned and I told them that the border wall work has already been issued to the BRO for 60 km”, said CM N Biren Singh.

CM Singh has given a final warning to those in possession of illegal weapons to surrender their arms within a period of 15 days.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh in a notification announced that the state government is willing to take a considerate view for people submitting their illegal weapons within the deadline. After which, security forces, will undertake a strong and comprehensive search operation across the state to recover such weapons, and those associated with any illegal weapons will be dealt with severely, as per law.

Chief Minister Singh has also warned that the State will take strong action against those involved in extortions, threats and abductions. The CM also appealed to the people to cooperate with the Central and State Governments in restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur.

Also Read : Manipur: Forces on high alert along NH-02, NH-37 to ensure supply of essentials

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