Citizenship Bill protests: Curfew in Imphal, Internet services suspended
Imphal, Feb 12 (IBNS): A curfew has been imposed in the Manipur capital after sporadic violence erupted today during a state-wide bandh called by civic society groups against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, media reports said.
The proposed amendment would mean relaxed citizenship eligibility for non-Muslims from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The bill, which was passed by the Lok Sabha last month, could not be tabled in the Upper House today.
“Curfew has been imposed in Imphal area, in the twin districts of Imphal (East) and Imphal (West) and the agitation continues,” said Manipur director general of police LM Khaute, according to Hindustan Times.
Mobile internet services have been suspended in the state. “We are making all efforts to ensure peace prevails,” Khaute said.
A 36-hour shutdown called by People’s Alliance Manipur, which was to end on Tuesday evening, has been extended by 24 hours because the bill was not tabled in Parliament today.
In Mizoram, civil society groups under the umbrella of NGO coordination committee, observed a black day.
Former chief minister Lalthanhawla and other protesters carried black flags and posters reading "Hello Independent Republic of Mizoram".
“The bill is not in the interests of the people of Northeast,” the former CM said.
What is Citizenship Bill?
The Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2016 is aimed to grant Indian citizenship to the Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
About 30 lakh people had submitted their claims for inclusion of their names in the final NRC during the claims and objections submission process ended on December 31 last.
Image Credit: Former Mizoram CM Lalthanhawla with a "Hello Independent Republic of Mizoram" poster . Source: Twitter
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