The Manipur government imposed a five-day internet ban and curfews in Imphal East and West districts after violent protests erupted, with students and women clashing with security forces. Protesters, demanding the removal of the state’s Director General of Police (DGP) and a security advisor, were dispersed by tear gas as they marched towards the Raj Bhavan. The unrest follows recent drone and rocket attacks that have killed at least eight people and injured over 12.

The internet ban, effective from September 10 to September 15, aims to prevent the spread of hate speech and inflammatory content on social media. Despite curfews, the government has allowed essential services, such as health, power, and media, to operate. The clashes are the latest in a series of violent incidents in the state, which has been marred by ethnic strife between the Meitei and Kuki communities since May last year.

Manipur Police officials dismissed claims by a retired Assam Rifles officer who denied the use of drones and rockets in the attacks. Authorities confirmed the recovery of drone parts and rocket tails, affirming the use of advanced weaponry. Police officials also emphasized that the force is composed of diverse communities, including Meiteis, Kukis, Nagas, and others, countering allegations of a biased force.