Mobile Internet Suspension and Protests in Imphal

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Overview

In light of the recent turbulence in Imphal, mobile internet services faced suspension, and educational institutions closed due to large-scale protests.

Suspension of Mobile Internet

Following the restoration of mobile internet services on September 23, they were suspended again for five days. This marked the 143rd day since the ethnic conflict began on May 3 between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities.

Protests Erupt

• Imphal witnessed vehement protests after photos of two missing Meitei students emerged on social media. They had disappeared in July. The Manipur government confirmed the tragic demise of these students, labeling it as a “murder.”
• Police Intervention: In an attempt to disband the protestors, police resorted to firing tear gas shells. This action led to several students getting injured. The police stated that they used minimum force to ensure peace in the region.
• Controversial Video Concerning RAF
  • A video clip went viral on social platforms allegedly showing RAF personnel making casteist remarks. However, the Rapid Action Force refuted these claims! Furthermore,  they emphasized the dedication and sincerity of their personnel. They believe the video was manipulated to tarnish their reputation.

School Closures and Police Actions

The state government ordered schools to remain shut on September 27 and 28 due to the unstable law and order situation. Furthermore, on September 26, police and central security forces commenced raids in Bishnupur district. This was done in an attempt to locate the bodies of the missing students.

Investigation Into The Missing Students

• Initial Sightings: The last time the students were spotted was on July 6 near Laikha, where they were taking photographs.
• Police Report Details: According to police findings, the students had ventured into an area known to be dominated by Kuki militants, making the investigation challenging. They recommended the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) handle the case due to their broader reach and expertise. The case was indeed handed over to the CBI later that month.
• Contrasting Allegations: Initially, the disappearance of the 17-year-old girl was considered an abduction case, with the 20-year-old male student being a suspect. However, subsequent findings suggested that both might have been kidnapped and murdered by the Kuki militants.
• Evidence: A series of photos on social media showed the students with armed individuals in the background. Another image depicted their lifeless bodies near a rock.
• Urgent Plea to Home Minister

24 legislators from Manipur have reached out to Home Minister Amit Shah, urging a swift investigation into the matter. They cited a previous incident that occurred on May 4 where two tribal women faced horrifying crimes, stressing the importance of expedited justice.

CBI’s Next Steps

To delve deeper into this case, the Central Bureau of Investigation’s Special Director, Ajay Bhatnagar, along with a team, will be arriving in Manipur soon.

In light of these events, Imphal remains a hotspot of tension, with the authorities aiming to restore peace and order as swiftly as possible.

DIY Activity: “Understanding the Dynamics of a News Story”

Objective:

To help secondary graders comprehend the complexities and intricacies of a news story while enhancing their analytical and presentation skills.

Materials:

1. Printed copy of the news story
2. Highlighters or colored pens
3. Chart paper or poster board
4. Markers
5. Sticky notes
6. Laptop or tablet (optional for research)

Instructions:

1. Reading & Highlighting:
   • Read the news story provided.
   • Using highlighters or colored pens, highlight the main events, key characters, locations, and dates.
2. Timeline Creation:
   • On a piece of chart paper or poster board, create a timeline of the events detailed in the news story.
   • Mark the dates and briefly describe the events that occurred.
3. Character Mapping:
   • Write down the names of the key characters or groups involved.
   • Briefly note their role or perspective in the event. For example, “Police: Used tear gas to disperse the crowd.”
4. Research & Analysis:
   • Use a laptop or tablet to research more about the backgrounds of the key players, the history of the ethnic conflict, and any other relevant events leading up to the story. This will provide a deeper understanding and context.
   • Jot down interesting findings on sticky notes and place them on the timeline or character map.
5. Discussion Points:
   • On a separate sheet, write down:
     1. Your opinions on the events.
     2. Questions you have.
     3. Possible solutions or outcomes for the situation.
6. Presentation:
   • Present your timeline, character map, and discussion points to the class or a group.
   • Encourage feedback, questions, and group discussion.

Follow-up Activities:

1. Debate Session: Divide the class into groups representing different stakeholders in the news story. Host a debate focusing on the issues highlighted in the news.
2. Essay Writing: Write a 500-word essay on the importance of unbiased journalism and the impact of social media on news dissemination.

Learning Outcomes:

• Improved reading comprehension and analytical skills.
• A deeper understanding of current events and their socio-political implications.
• Enhanced presentation and public speaking skills.
• Encouragement of critical thinking and empathy by considering multiple perspectives.

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