India Shuts Down internet Access Amidst Farmer Protests
In a move that echoes similar actions in recent years, Indian authorities temporarily suspended internet services in parts of Haryana state on December 14, 2024, ahead of a planned farmer protest march toward Delhi. The shutdown, affecting mobile internet, bulk SMS messaging, and other data services, aimed to prevent potential disruptions and maintain public order.
The planned march, involving approximately 101 farmers from groups like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, was set to begin from the Shambhu border. These farmers are continuing their long-standing protest, demanding the government address a list of 12 key concerns, including minimum support prices (MSP) for crops.
The government order cited concerns about potential unrest. The order stated, “….in view of the call for Delhi kooch given by certain farmer organizations, there is an apprehension of causing tension, annoyance, agitation, damage of public and private property and disturbance of public peace & tranquility in the area of district Ambala.” The order further explained that the internet shutdown was necessary to prevent the spread of inflammatory material and false rumors via social media and messaging services.
Specific areas affected by the internet suspension included Dangdehri, Lohgarh, Manakpur, Dadiyana, Bari Ghel, Choti Ghel, Lharsa, Kalu Majra, Devi Nagar (Hira Nagar, Naresh Vihar), saddopur, Sultanpur, and Kakru in the Ambala district.The order directed all Haryana telecom service providers to comply with the shutdown.
Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher emphasized the peaceful nature of the protest,stating on Saturday that the farmers “will proceed ‘peacefully’ towards Delhi” to press their demands on the central government. These demands include securing MSPs for crops, a crucial issue for many Indian farmers.
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between farmers and the Indian government over agricultural policies. The temporary internet shutdown underscores the governmentS efforts to manage potential disruptions during large-scale protests, a tactic that has drawn criticism in the past for potentially infringing on freedom of speech and access to data. The situation bears watching as the protest unfolds and the government balances public order with essential rights.
Farmers’ Protest in India: An Internet Blackout?
Today, we have the esteemed Dr. anya Sharma, a specialist in internet governance adn digital rights, joining us to discuss the latest developments in India. Dr. Sharma,on December 14th,2024, the Indian government shut down internet access in parts of Haryana state,citing concerns about a planned farmer protest march on Delhi. Could you walk us through the situation?
Dr. sharma:
Certainly. This incident once again highlights the Indian government’s tendency to resort to internet shutdowns, a tactic increasingly criticized both domestically and internationally. This particular shutdown seems to be focused on preventing the spread of what the government perceives as perhaps inflammatory material and false rumors during the farmers’ protest.
So, this isn’t the first time India has taken this step. In fact, based on our research [[[[2], India has led the world in internet shutdowns for six consecutive years. What are some of the broader implications of this trend?
Dr. Sharma:
You’re right, India’s record on internet shutdowns is alarming. These shutdowns have important consequences. They restrict access to data, hinder communication, and can severely impact individuals’ livelihoods and businesses. The potential for abuse is very real.
More specifically concerning is the use of shutdowns to stifle dissent and criticism. As we see in this farmer protest case,the government’s stated reasons often revolve around maintaining public order. Though, this frequently enough masks a desire to control the narrative and limit the spread of dissenting voices.
Certainly, a delicate balance needs to be struck between public safety and freedom of expression. This farmer protest, where they are demanding minimum support prices for crops,
is about fundamental economic concerns.
Do you see any alternative approaches the Indian government could have taken instead of an internet blackout?
Dr. Sharma:
Absolutely. Dialog and engagement are crucial in such situations. The government could have explored de-escalation tactics, direct communication with protest leaders, and transparently addressed the farmers’ concerns. We should also remember that internet access is now considered a fundamental right by many, and blanket shutdowns are a disproportionate response in most cases.
Looking ahead, what are your thoughts on the future of internet governance and freedom of speech in India?
Dr.Sharma:
It’s a critical time for India.There’s an urgent need for legal frameworks that protect freedom of expression online while also addressing legitimate security concerns.
Civil society organizations need to continue to advocate for openness and accountability from the government regarding internet shutdowns.
Hopefully, we’ll see a shift towards more responsible and rights-respecting approaches to internet governance in India.
