In Manipur, another internet shutdown, a conflict intensified — on internet shutdowns in Manipur

Source: This post has been created based on the article “In Manipur, another internet shutdown, a conflict intensified” published in the Indian Express on 6^th October 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Internal Security — Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges.

News: The article discusses the recurring pattern of internet shutdowns in Manipur and the associated reasoning, failure of institutions to ensure accountability of state governments and its consequences.

Recently, India’s second-longest internet blackout stretching for over 143 days in Manipur ended in September with the restoration of full internet access. However, horrific images posted of those slain in the Manipur conflict on social media led to outrage and protests in Imphal leading to another shutdown of internet.

The state’s failure to protect its citizens raises questions. It also underpins a lack of confidence in the state and a climate of mistrust and fear.

More on internet shutdowns here

What are the reasons for prevalence of internet shutdowns in India?

1) Union Executive: The Union government has set its own example with a 552-day shutdown in Jammu and Kashmir.

2) The Department of Telecom refuses to maintain a centralized database. Also, the proposed Telecom Bill retains unchecked power to implement internet shutdowns.

3) Judiciary: The Supreme Court has avoided addressing the internet shutdown issue in multiple cases. The High Court of Manipur has focused on the concept of “limited internet shutdowns”, which is gaining traction but lacks public attention.

5) Private Sector: Major telecom players like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone are advocating for service-level blocks. It may lead to increased government interference in dictating “essential internet services”.

What are the consequences of internet shutdowns without accountability?

In the absence of accountability, internet shutdowns will continue to hamper the democratic political discourse by preventing public assembly and protest.

Internet shutdowns prevent images of violence and brutality reaching us, which will make us numb and apathetic to the tragedy in Manipur.

This lack of ensuring accountability may lead to a “cycle of violence” — which refers to the harmful relationship that can develop between the state and its citizens.