Internet Shutdowns in India

India continues to lead globally in the number of government-ordered Internet shutdowns, despite a slight decrease in 2024 compared to 2023, as reported by the Software Freedom Law Center (SLFC) and Access Now.

Reasons for Internet Shutdowns

• The Union government considers mobile Internet shutdowns crucial for controlling law and order situations.
• Out of 84 shutdowns in 2024, 41 occurred during protests, 23 during communal clashes, and 5 were imposed to prevent cheating during examinations.

Consequences and Legal Framework

• Costs of Shutdowns: Internet shutdowns impact livelihoods, access to medical care, and education.
• Legal Perspective: The Supreme Court's ruling in Anuradha Bhasin vs Union of India mandates that shutdowns must meet the tests of necessity and proportionality.

Concerns and Recommendations

• The lack of proper documentation and transparency, as required by the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024 and 2017, is alarming.
• Access Now and SFLC reports highlight the absence of valid orders on government websites detailing the duration and cause of shutdowns.
• There is a call for a thorough assessment post-shutdown to evaluate necessity and costs involved.

Global Context and Conclusion

• Globally, 296 Internet shutdowns were imposed last year, affecting millions.
• There is a need for India to exercise caution and restraint, with an ideal aim of reducing the number of shutdowns to zero.
• The shutdowns index is a ranking where India should not aspire to lead.