Situation worsens in Manipur, uproar after arrest of Meitei leader...
The situation is getting tense once again in Manipur. It is reported that protests had started in many areas after the arrest of Meitei leaders. In view of the situation, the Manipur government has shut down internet services in five districts of the state for five days. These districts include Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching and Vishnupur. Gathering of more people has also been banned in these districts.This decision has been taken to avoid increasing tension and rumors in the state.The government fears that some people may spoil the atmosphere by spreading inflammatory messages and false news on social media. The government order states that this may endanger the lives of people, damage property and spread communal tension. Therefore, services like mobile internet, social media apps, VPN, dongle have been shut down from 11:45 pm.Why did protests start again in Manipur?According to a report in The Hindustan Times, protesters demanding the release of Tengole protested by burning tyres and old furniture on the road in Kwakethel and Uripok areas. Meanwhile, Manipur home Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary N ashok kumar said in a statement, "Given the fragile law and order situation in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching and Vishnupur districts, there is a fear that some anti-social elements may misuse social media. They may try to spread objectionable pictures, speeches and inflammatory videos to incite people's sentiments, which may further worsen the situation in the state."News of arrest of Meitei leaders by NIARajya Sabha mp Leishemba Sanajaoba also reached the spot and tried to talk to senior security personnel about the situation there. A video has gone viral on social media in which Sanajaoba is seen saying, "We have made a lot of efforts to maintain peace. How will peace be maintained if you take such steps? arrest me along with the MLA."It is reported that the Meitei leaders were arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) team at around 2:30 pm, but it has not been officially confirmed yet.