According to report, Global internet shutdowns reached a record high in 2024, with India leading in government-imposed restrictions.
Key Findings of Report:
- 296 shutdowns were recorded across 54 countries in 2024, an increase from 283 in 2023.
- Myanmar (85 shutdowns), India (84), Pakistan (21), and Russia (19) accounted for 71% of total.
- Human Rights Concerns: 72 shutdowns were linked to grave human rights abuses, including war crimes, police brutality, and airstrikes.
- India-Specific Findings: India recorded 84 shutdowns (Highest in any democracy) affecting 16 states and territories.
- Primary Reasons for Shutdowns: Protests, Elections, Communal Violence and examinations.
Legal Provisions for Internet Shutdown in India:
- Legal Basis: Governed by Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024 under Telecommunications Act, 2023.
- Mandating publication of suspension orders: including detailed justifications, geographical scope, and affected services.
- Suspension duration cannot exceed 15 days.
- Authority: Order can be issued by Union Home Secretary for Central Government, or Secretary to State Government in-charge of Home Department for State Government;
- Mandating publication of suspension orders: including detailed justifications, geographical scope, and affected services.
- Section 144 of erstwhile CrPC (section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita): Used by authorities to impose restrictions.
- Anuradha Bhasin case (2020) Judgement: Apex Court (SC) held that internet restrictions must be temporary, lawful, necessary, and proportionate.
