Apar GuptaOn September 23, 2023, Manipur’s chief minister triumphantly announced the restoration of full internet access, attributing it to “improved” law and order. This ended India’s second-longest internet blackout, which had stretched for over 143 days since May 3. The news was greeted with relief by citizens — from students planning their return to Manipur to aid workers scrambling for essential supplies. Yet, this respite was fleeting. Within two days, the nation was jolted awake by horrific images of two slain Meitei students. The ensuing outrage and protests in Imphal were met with a familiar governmental response: Another shutdown of mobile internet access.
Archives for the tag Internet Shutdowns
India’s Digital Governance `Model’ Fails on Rights
Shutdown is no cure
There is no evidence to support limited internet shutdowns, but plenty of data to show the harm they can do.
An Internet ban will not restore peace in Manipur
There is an absence of data or specific instances of violence being prevented due to the jamming of Internet connectivity.
New telecom law must provide for basic rights
Any absence of constitutional values may further corporate profits and increase tele-connectivity, but hinder equitable access. Will citizens be safeguarded against censorship and surveillance?
Private School Association J&K v. U.T. of Jammu & Kashmir
In the case of Private School Association J&K v. U.T. of Jammu & Kashmir [W.P. (C) No. 63 of 2021], the petitioners challenged the restrictions on internet speed in Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that it hindered online education during the COVID-19 pandemic and violated the Right to Education. The Supreme Court weighed public safety concerns against fundamental rights, ultimately deciding in favour of maintaining internet restrictions due to security threats. The Court acknowledged the necessity of balancing civil liberties with national security concerns
Favouring public order over justice
Last week, the Supreme Court gave its much-awaited judgment on the legality of the telecommunications and Internet shutdown orders in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), in place for more than 160 days now. Given the centrality of the Internet in our lives and the fact that the preceding weeks had seen such shutdowns in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Delhi, the ruling was eagerly awaited across the country. However, in its language, structure and the relief granted, the verdict came across more as one premised on legal centrism than one advancing fundamental rights.
A governance failure on Internet Shutdowns in India
Secrecy Abounds the Creation of India’s Internet Shutdown Regulations. Why?
The cost of internet shutdowns
Government-mandated interruptions are rising. Economic and social costs are huge.