The Manipur government, under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, has taken a significant step to restore normalcy and peace in the state by prohibiting the circulation of violent videos and images depicting and damage to properties. This move comes in the wake of an extended suspension of mobile data internet services, which was originally put in place after violence erupted in the state on May 3. The government’s actions aim to curb the spread of potentially inflammatory content and to maintain law and order in Manipur.
The decision to extend the suspension of mobile data internet services until October 16 is reflective of the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and stability of the state. Mobile internet services were initially banned following violent incidents in May, and this extension underscores the ongoing challenges and tensions that Manipur has been facing.
The government’s directive against the circulation of videos and images that depict violence or damage to properties is not only a measure to quell immediate disturbances but also a proactive step to prevent the escalation of conflict. The Manipur home department issued a statement highlighting the government’s seriousness in addressing this issue and its potential impact on law and order.
The statement noted, “The state government views very seriously and with utmost sensitivity the reported spread of videos and images depicting violent activities, inflicting harm or injury to (any) body or damage to private and public properties through various social media platforms, which may aggravate the law and order situation in the state.” This statement underscores the significance of responsible social media usage and the potential consequences of sharing content that can incite or exacerbate violence.
The government’s order is not merely punitive but also seeks the cooperation of the citizens. It urges individuals in possession of such videos or images to submit them to the nearest superintendent of police, regardless of jurisdiction. This collaborative approach aims to address the issue collectively and ensure that those who contribute to the spread of potentially harmful content are held accountable. The order also warns of legal prosecution and the misuse of technology provisions for individuals found violating this directive.
The decision to prohibit the circulation of violent images and videos is also motivated by a broader goal: to thwart the activities of anti-national and anti-social elements. Maintaining peace and communal harmony is paramount, and this measure aims to prevent any loss of life or further disruption in the state. It underscores the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens and maintaining social order.
Manipur has faced a series of challenges in recent months, including mass protests in the Imphal valley. These protests were triggered by images of the bodies of two missing youths that surfaced on social media. The crackdown on these protests by security forces and police resulted in injuries to over 100 students, primarily girls. Ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki tribes has also been ongoing since May 3, initially sparked by the Meiteis’ demand for tribe status.
The situation in Manipur is complex, with various social, political, and ethnic dynamics at play. Maintaining peace and addressing the root causes of unrest require a multifaceted approach. Prohibiting the circulation of violent images and videos is one step in this broader strategy, aimed at de-escalating tensions and restoring normalcy.
The Manipur government’s actions highlight the delicate balance between preserving freedom of expression and maintaining public safety. In a digital age where information can spread rapidly through social media, governments often face the challenge of mitigating the potential for online content to incite violence or fuel unrest. In this context, the government’s decision to ban such content is a response to the specific challenges and risks faced by Manipur, and it underscores the importance of responsible digital citizenship and the role of social media in shaping public perceptions and actions.