Manipur bans circulation of 'violent' images, videos amid ethnic clashes
Manipur ethnic clashes: The government of Manipur has banned the sharing of images and videos "depicting violent activities" that may aggravate the law-and-order situation in the northeastern state, which has been rocked by ethnic clashes since May.
According to an order issued on Wednesday by Commissioner (Home) T Ranjit Singh on behalf of Governor Anusuiya Uikey, the decision was made as a "positive step towards restoring normalcy in the state."
“Nobody shall be allowed to circulate/spread such videos/images/pictures through various social media platforms...on electronic equipment like tablet, computer, mobile phone etc and sending bulk SMS,” the order further read.
The order urged anyone in possession of videos/images depicting causing/inflicting harm/injury to body and/or damage to public/private property, among other things, to approach the nearest superintendent of police and submit them for appropriate legal action.
According to the orders, anyone found circulating such images/videos or misusing technology to incite violence/hatred shall face legal consequences under the relevant laws.
Since May 3, ethnic violence between Meiteis and tribal Kukis has seriously disrupted life in the border state of Manipur.
Until now, at least 178 people have been killed in the violence, thousands of homes have been destroyed, and over 50,000 people have been homeless.
Despite a ban on internet services in place since May, some sensitive images and videos depicting violence, deaths, and property destruction have emerged and gone viral, sparking outrage and violent protests.
- With inputs from agencies
