Ban on broadband partially lifted in Manipur; mobile internet still suspended.

Manipur Government Lifts Suspension on Broadband Internet

The Manipur government has announced the lifting of the suspension on broadband internet in the state. However, mobile internet will continue to remain suspended, according to an official notification by the home department. The decision comes almost three months after the internet was banned in response to the ethnic violence that took place in Manipur.

Conditional Restoration of Broadband Internet

The restoration of broadband internet will be done in a “liberalised manner” with certain conditions. Subscribers will only be allowed to connect through a static IP and cannot accept any other connection. The internet service providers will be held responsible for non-compliance with this condition. Additionally, no WiFi hotspots will be allowed from any routers or systems using the connection.

Lenient Approach Due to Adverse Impact

The government has decided to take a more lenient approach to the internet ban due to its adverse impact on offices, institutions, and individuals working remotely. The ban has also hindered access to essential online services such as mobile recharge, LPG cylinder booking, and electricity bill payments. The suspension on broadband internet has been lifted to address these issues, but with certain terms and conditions that need to be met.

Summary:

• The Manipur government has lifted the suspension on broadband internet in the state.
• Mobile internet will continue to remain suspended.
• Connection will only be allowed through a static IP.
• No WiFi hotspots will be allowed from any routers or systems.
• The lenient approach was taken due to the adverse impact of the internet ban.