Q. Consider the following statements:
1.Indian States and Union Territories can impose an internet shutdown only in case of a “public emergency” or in the interest of “public safety”.
2.The Indian Telegraph Act defines the criteria for determining what constitutes as an emergency or safety issue in the case of internet shutdowns.
3.Jammu and Kashmir saw the highest number of internet shutdowns in the last decade.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Explanation –
Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Indian States and Union Territories can impose an internet shutdown only in case of a “public emergency” or in the interest of “public safety.” The legal basis for internet shutdowns in India comes from the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017, issued under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. Jammu and Kashmir has experienced the highest number of internet shutdowns at 433 — in the last 12 years. The longest blackout in 2023 took place in Manipur from May to December, amid ethnic clashes.
Statement 2 is incorrect. The Indian Telegraph Act does not clearly define the criteria for determining what constitutes a public emergency or safety issue in the case of internet shutdowns. The terms “public emergency” and “public safety” are not explicitly defined, leaving room for interpretation by authorities.
Source: The Hindu
