Imphal : The Manipur government on Tuesday ordered a five-day suspension of internet and data services across Ukhrul district, citing concerns that social media platforms could be misused to incite unrest amid a volatile law and order situation.

According to an official order issued by the Home Department, the decision was taken after a review of the prevailing situation in the hill district and its possible linkage with the unrestricted operation of internet services.

The government said there was a serious apprehension that anti-social elements could exploit social media to circulate images, posts and video messages capable of inflaming public sentiment, potentially leading to loss of life, damage to property and widespread disturbance to public tranquillity and communal harmony.

The order, dated February 10, 2026, warned that inflammatory content and false rumours could be transmitted through social media platforms, messaging services, SMS and dongle-based internet connections, further aggravating the situation on the ground. In view of these concerns, the government decided to temporarily suspend and curb internet and data services, including broadband, VPN and VSAT facilities, across the entire revenue jurisdiction of Ukhrul district.

Invoking powers under Rule 3 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024, the Governor of Manipur ordered the suspension with effect from 11.30 am on February 10. The restrictions will remain in force for five days as a preventive and precautionary measure, the order said.

All internet service providers operating in the state have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the order. The government cautioned that any violation of the suspension directive would invite legal action. Given the emergent nature of the situation, the order was issued ex parte and directed to be widely disseminated through print and electronic media for public information.