In response to mounting pleas seeking resumption of services disrupted due to civil unrest, the court's innovative stance underscores a potential phase-wise whitelisting system, hinting at a transformative shift in digital access.
In a groundbreaking move, the Manipur High Court has taken a forward-thinking stance, urging the state government to explore novel methods for restoring mobile internet services to the people. The court's decision comes in response to a series of petitions filed by various parties, seeking the re-establishment of mobile internet access that was curtailed in the wake of unrest that unfolded on May 3.
A distinguished panel comprising Justice Ahanthem Bimol Singh and Justice A Guneshwar Sharma presided over the proceedings, advocating for a technologically astute solution. The court's directive highlighted the importance of a meticulous approach, suggesting that the state authorities, particularly the home department, contemplate the implementation of a mechanism that grants internet access via mobile phones. This approach would involve a nuanced whitelisting process, executed on a case-by-case basis and rolled out progressively in phases, as reported by PTI.
The court emphasized, 'In accordance with this vision, we instruct the state authorities to engage with this concept and provide a comprehensive report at the upcoming session.'
During the hearing, the state's legal representatives underscored that the Manipur government had already initiated measures to alleviate the digital blockade, allowing internet access through broadband services (ILL & FTTH) in a measured and permissive manner. This liberation was contingent upon the fulfillment of specific safeguards and conditions, a provision that numerous citizens have capitalized on, according to the counsel's statement.
Championing the cause of the petitioners, their legal representatives contended that the absence of data breaches via the whitelisted mobile phones underscores the feasibility of a wider implementation. The court was urged to consider issuing an apt directive that would pave the way for a gradual and comprehensive whitelisting of all mobile devices.
Providing assurance of diligent preparation, the counsel revealed that the authorities had conducted rigorous physical trials to assess the viability of lifting the mobile internet ban through selective whitelisting. The service providers' report bolstered this position, indicating an absence of data leakage to unauthorized numbers.
The prolonged suspension of mobile internet services in Manipur, which commenced on May 3 in response to civil unrest, has prompted this innovative legal intervention. As the court reconvenes to deliberate on the matter once more, scheduled for August 31, the prospect of renewed digital connectivity beckons, underscoring Manipur's journey towards a technologically empowered future.