Manipur's Ongoing Struggles: Over 500 Days of Shutdowns and Internet Blackouts

Manipur has faced a severe crisis since May 2023, with over 500 days of shutdowns and economic blockades, alongside extensive internet service suspensions. Official records reveal that the state has endured significant disruptions, including curfews and internet blackouts, as authorities attempt to manage the ongoing violence between communities. The situation remains critical, with the highest number of disruptions recorded in 2026. This article delves into the details of these events and their impact on the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 18, 2026, 12:57 IST

Overview of Manipur's Turmoil

A glimpse of Imphal during a five-day shutdown (Photo: AT)

Imphal, Sept 18: Since the outbreak of violence on May 3, 2023, Manipur has endured a staggering 523 days of bandhs, shutdowns, and economic blockades, alongside 385 days of internet service interruptions, as reported by the State Home Department.

This data spans from May 3, 2023, to September 8, 2026, totaling 1,225 days, equivalent to three years, four months, and six days.

In 2023 alone, the state experienced 107 days marked by bandhs, shutdowns, or economic blockades, despite significant disruptions to transport during the early phases of the conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities.

The following year, 2024, saw an increase to 113 days of similar disruptions, which included 63 days of bandhs or shutdowns and 50 days of economic blockades.

In 2025, the number decreased to 78 days, comprising 49 days of bandhs or shutdowns and 29 days of economic blockades.

However, 2026 has recorded the highest number of disruptions to date, with 225 days of bandhs, shutdowns, and economic blockades from January to September, including 136 days of bandhs or shutdowns and 89 days of economic blockades.

Throughout this period, internet services were suspended for a total of 385 days across various parts of Manipur, as per official records.

The government justified these suspensions as necessary to prevent the misuse of social media by individuals aiming to incite unrest through provocative images, posts, and videos that could exacerbate the law-and-order situation.

In 2023, the entire state faced internet service suspensions for 218 days.

The most recent suspension affected districts including Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, Jiribam, and Pherzawl, lasting five days from April 7, 2026, before being lifted on April 12.

Additionally, Manipur experienced 261 days of curfews during this timeframe, with either the entire state or specific districts under curfew from May 3, 2023, to April 9, 2026.

The longest curfew was enforced in Litan village, Ukhrul district, lasting 209 days from February 8 to September 4 this year, according to official data.