Haryana Imposes Internet Shutdown in Nuh District to Curb Potential Unrest
NEW DELHI – In a preemptive move to maintain law and order, the Haryana government has enforced a 24-hour suspension of mobile internet services, including 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, CDMA, and GPRS, as well as bulk SMS services (excluding banking and mobile recharge) in Nuh district. This temporary shutdown, effective from 9 pm on July 13 to 9 pm on July 14, comes in response to escalating concerns over the potential misuse of digital platforms to disseminate misinformation and incite violence. The decision was taken after warnings from intelligence and district officials regarding inflammatory content and rumours circulating on social media, which they feared could lead to public disorder and damage to property.
The order, issued under the authority of Section 20 of the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and Rule 3 of the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024, aims to disrupt the spread of potentially harmful content and prevent its use in mobilizing unlawful activities. While the suspension affects a wide range of mobile data services, it is designed to minimize disruption to essential services. Voice calls, broadband internet connections, and leased lines for businesses remain operational, ensuring that communication channels for critical needs remain open.
The government’s decision underscores a delicate balancing act between preserving security and upholding public convenience. Authorities are striving to prevent any escalation of tension in Nuh, a region with a history of unrest. By temporarily restricting access to mobile internet and bulk SMS, they seek to control the spread of misinformation and quell potential unrest before it can manifest into physical violence or property damage. The move also signals a growing awareness of the power of digital platforms to exacerbate tensions in sensitive areas and the need for timely intervention to prevent their misuse.
The Haryana Home Department emphasized the precautionary nature of the order, stressing that it’s intended to safeguard public peace and prevent any law and order disruptions. The government also issued a stern warning that any violation of the suspension order will be met with legal action under the relevant laws. This underscores the seriousness with which authorities are approaching the situation and their determination to prevent the misuse of communication technologies for illegal purposes.
This temporary shutdown in Nuh reflects a broader trend of governments resorting to internet restrictions in times of heightened tension or potential unrest. While such measures can be effective in curbing the spread of misinformation and preventing organized violence, they also raise concerns about freedom of expression and access to information. The impact on local businesses, communication, and daily life also needs to be considered. Finding the right balance between security concerns and fundamental rights remains a challenge for authorities.
It is crucial for the government to maintain transparency about the rationale and duration of such internet shutdowns. Clear communication with the public can help allay fears and prevent the spread of rumors. Coupled with efforts to address the underlying causes of unrest, temporary internet suspensions can be a useful tool in maintaining peace and stability. However, they should be used judiciously and as a last resort, with careful consideration of their impact on citizens’ rights and freedoms. The situation in Nuh will continue to be closely monitored, and further actions will likely depend on the evolving security situation on the ground.