The government of Manipur has imposed a three-day suspension of mobile internet services in five districts following a bomb explosion in Bishnupur district that resulted in the death of two children and injuries to their mother. The incident triggered fresh protests and violence in the troubled state.
The affected districts include Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur, as per an order from the Home Department issued on April 7. A curfew has been enforced in Bishnupur, where the attack occurred shortly after midnight on Tuesday.
Authorities cited the need to prevent the spread of misinformation and false rumors as well as to maintain public order as reasons for the temporary suspension of internet services. The restrictions came into effect from 2 pm on April 7.
In Moirang, a 5-year-old boy and a six-month-old girl were killed while their mother was injured in an attack by suspected militants in Tronglaobi Awang Leikai village. The area has been a focal point of tension between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The incident led to protests, including the burning of vehicles and damage to police property, prompting the deployment of security forces.
Following the violence, security personnel intervened by firing rounds and using smoke bombs to disperse a large crowd. Nineteen individuals sustained injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals, with one fatality reported at the scene. Journalists covering the events sought refuge in a nearby canal amid the turmoil.
Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh denounced the attack as an “act of terror” and vowed to apprehend and punish those responsible. Local MLA Th Shanti Singh attributed the assault to “Kuki narco-terrorists,” condemning the act as terrorism that has no place in society. The incident has disrupted peace in the region and reignited tensions in valley districts.