Internet remains cut off in Paletwa of Chin State for over 2 years

Even though the Paletwa of Chin state continues to be peaceful, the town remains cut off from the internet services for more than 2 years.

The restriction of internet services by the military council has put the residents in difficulties.

“Not to speak of internet, the telephone connectivity is also disrupted. Now it’s difficult to communicate. Some are using internet with IP Star but not telephone,” said a resident, adding that the situation returns to normalcy and they want the services back in order.

Starting from 23 September 2021, the military council has restricted the internet services in many townships in Rakhine and Chin state, including Paletwa.

"As the internet is not working, various sectors like health, education and business get affected. The authorities should consider it urgently,” he added.

In 2019, when the junta forces fought against the Arakan Army the internet was restricted in Paletwa for the first time.

The military council reopened the internet again after it. Even after the military coup on 1 February 2021, the services resumed after a few days.

But soon after the junta soldiers and Chin People's Defense Force members got engaged in gun fighting following which the services were restricted.

Due to the restrictions, the money transfer services have been closed and the consumers have to depend on conventional banks, said a businessman from Kyauk Taw area.

"I can't use the internet to transfer money. Even I can't send money with K-pay and hence I have to depend on banks. Thus we are facing difficulties,” he added.

The disruption of internet services for a longer period has been criticized by the conscious citizens. Many believe that it is a practice of the military council to harass the people.