Source-This post on Internet Shutdowns in India in 2023 is based on the article “India records highest number of Internet shutdowns in 2023” published in “The Hindu” on 14th May 2024.
Why in the News?
As per the recent study, India had the highest number of Internet shutdowns globally for the sixth consecutive year.
About Internet Shutdowns in India in 2023
1. India recorded the highest number of Internet shutdowns worldwide for the sixth consecutive year, with 116 incidents in 2023.
The frequency of prolonged shutdowns (lasting over five days) increased dramatically, from 15% of all shutdowns in 2022 to over 41% in 2023.
2. Reasons for Shutdowns: The government often imposed these shutdowns due to reasons such as communal tensions, violence, and exams. Notably, these measures have been criticized both domestically and internationally.
3. Severe Case in Manipur: The longest Internet shutdown occurred in Manipur, amid severe human rights violations. This state experienced 47 of the shutdown orders.
4. Regional vs. Local Shutdowns: Increasingly, shutdowns are being implemented on a regional basis. In 2023, 64 orders affected multiple districts within the same state, including a statewide shutdown in Punjab during a manhunt for Amritpal Singh.
5. Impact on Marginalized Communities: The report emphasized the profound impact on marginalized groups, particularly women in Manipur. The lack of Internet access hindered efforts to document and report atrocities like murder, rape, and arson.
6. Publication of Orders: There was inconsistent compliance with the Supreme Court’s guidelines for publishing Internet shutdown orders, adding to the challenges of accountability.
7. Internet Freedom Over the Decade: Over the past ten years, India has seen over 500 Internet shutdowns, reflecting a frequent use of this contentious measure, especially during protests, exams, elections, and episodes of communal violence.
8. Global Comparison: Myanmar recorded the second-highest number of shutdowns (37), following its 2021 military coup. Iran, Palestine, and Ukraine also featured prominently in the report with numerous shutdowns.
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