IMPHAL, June 25 (NNN): The ban on internet services in strife-torn Manipur has been extended for another five days, that is, till June 30.
In Manipur, internet and data services remained suspended after the wave of violence erupted in the evening of May 3.
The violence has claimed more than 120 lives and injured hundreds besides displacing thousands after their houses were torched in attacks and counter attacks.
There are still reports of incidents of violence, attacking and burning of houses including exchange of firing, an order of the Home department extending the ban on internet services issued today stated.
There is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate video messages, inciting the passions of the public which might have serious repercussions on the law and order situation in Manipur, it added.
There is imminent danger of loss of life or damage to public/private property and widespread disturbances to public tranquility and communal harmony, as a result of inflammatory material and false rumours, which might be transmitted or circulated to the public through social media/messaging services on mobile services, SMS services and dongle services.
It is still necessary to take adequate measures to maintain law and order in public interest, by stopping the spread of disinformation and rumours, through various social media platforms such as Whatsapp, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter etc. on mobile phones etc. and sending bulk SMS, it added.