IMPHAL, Jan 24: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Thursday issued a stern warning to social media page handlers who engage in uploading posts that violate the law and invade the personal space of individuals. The Chief Minister expressed concern over the rise of anti-social activities linked to newly formed organizations in the state, particularly since the ethnic crisis that began in May 2023.
In a press conference, Singh highlighted that several groups, which have emerged in the wake of the unrest, have been involved in extorting, detaining, and assaulting people. He further noted that some recent social media posts have been communal in nature and have interfered with the private lives of others. Singh specifically pointed out the disturbing trend of unauthorized groups interrogating individuals, particularly women, about personal matters and uploading these interactions on social media.
“These incidents are extremely awkward, disturbing, and uncivilized,” the Chief Minister said. He informed reporters that he had directed the police and intelligence agencies to take action and that a formal notice would soon be issued to summon all social media page handlers and group administrators involved in such activities. Singh questioned, “Who has authorized these groups to interfere in the private lives of individuals?”
Singh also addressed the ongoing violence in the state, confirming that those involved in criminal activities, including looting and torching the residences of elected representatives, had been arrested. Some of the perpetrators are now facing charges under the National Security Act (NSA). “Their lives will be difficult, as their records will be with the police, and those with FIRs won’t be able to enter government services,” he said.
The Chief Minister acknowledged the restraint the government has shown as people have already suffered due to the violence but warned that the situation had reached an intolerable level. He questioned the authority of these new organizations, emphasizing that while forming organizations is a democratic right, no group has the authority to apprehend, assault, or extort people.
Singh revealed plans to form special police teams to tackle these issues. “Office employees have been summoned by them for extortion. Who has authorized them? They are threatening the officials with abduction if their demands are not met. This should be stopped,” he stated.
The Chief Minister urged the people to not support those who have taken the law into their own hands and appealed for cooperation in restoring peace and normalcy in the state. He reiterated his call for the media’s support in this effort, as signs of calmness are beginning to emerge following the intense period of unrest.
