In a year marked by significant technological advancements, India has found itself at the forefront of a different kind of trend: internet shutdowns. According to a report by Access Now, India imposed 84 internet shutdowns in 2024, the highest number among democratic nations worldwide, surpassed only by Myanmar, which saw 85 shutdowns under its military junta.
Internet shutdowns in India are often justified as measures to maintain public order and prevent the spread of misinformation. However, critics argue that these shutdowns infringe upon fundamental rights and hinder economic and social progress. In 2024, 41 shutdowns were linked to protests, while 23 were triggered by communal violence.
The legal basis for internet shutdowns in India is rooted in the Telegraph Act of 1885, which allows the government to suspend services during public emergencies or for public safety. Despite a Supreme Court ruling in the Anuradha Bhasin case (2020) that internet restrictions must be temporary, lawful, necessary, and proportionate, shutdowns continue to be implemented frequently.
TBC's Insider:
Internet shutdowns have far-reaching consequences:
Economic Losses: Shutdowns disrupt businesses, causing significant economic losses. A study by the Brookings Institution estimated that India lost approximately $2.8 billion due to internet shutdowns between 2012 and 2017.
Social Implications: Beyond economic costs, shutdowns affect access to essential services like education and healthcare. The United Nations has recognised internet access as a fundamental human right, crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) like education and gender equality
The frequency of shutdowns varies across states, with Manipur imposing the most in 2024, followed by Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir. The longest recorded shutdown was in Kashmir, lasting 552 days from August 2019 to February 2021.
As India continues to navigate its role as a global leader in technology and governance, the issue of internet shutdowns remains a pressing concern. While the number of shutdowns decreased from 116 in 2023 to 84 in 2024, it is crucial for policymakers to balance security needs with the imperative of protecting digital rights.
