Imphal, Sep 13 (V7N)- Broadband internet services have been conditionally resumed in five districts of India's northeastern state of Manipur, following a three-day suspension. However, the ban on mobile data usage remains in place. The suspension of internet services had been implemented after clashes between students and police in the state capital, Imphal.

According to reports from India Today and The Hindu, internet services were restored on Thursday in the districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching. This comes after a series of violent incidents, including bomb blasts and clashes with insurgents, left at least 11 people dead in recent days. The suspension of services was part of efforts by the state government to control the deteriorating situation.

The unrest escalated on Tuesday during a student-led protest in Imphal. Students marched towards the governor's office to stage a demonstration but were met with resistance from the police. A clash ensued, lasting around an hour, before the police managed to disperse the crowd.

Following the clash, the Manipur Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notification suspending all internet and mobile data services for five days. The decision was made to prevent further escalation of violence and maintain control over the volatile situation.

The ongoing violence in Manipur has been linked to tensions between the predominantly Hindu Meitei community and the Christian Kuki community. The conflict, which began in May 2023, has claimed the lives of at least 200 people so far. Renewed violence, including drone and missile attacks, has further heightened the situation in the state.

In response, the central government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has deployed additional members of the Central Paramilitary Force (CRPF) to Manipur in an effort to restore peace and order.

As the situation continues to unfold, authorities in Manipur are closely monitoring the unrest, with the partial resumption of broadband internet seen as a cautious step towards normalcy in certain areas. However, the conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities remains a significant challenge for the state and its residents.

END/AJ/SMA