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Source: The post is based on the article “Manipur internet shutdowns: Forgetting the lessons from Kashmir” published in “The Indian express” on 29th July 2023.
Syllabus: GS2- fundamental rights & Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability,
News: In this article author discusses how the Manipur government’s internet shutdown harms citizens by limiting their fundamental rights to expression and information, deepening the digital divide, and causing economic losses, and criticizes India’s frequent use of internet shutdowns, comparing it to past incidents like in Jammu and Kashmir.
What are the impacts of internet shutdown in Manipur?
Limited Access: Over 90% of users, especially in rural areas, rely on mobile internet which remains suspended.
Digital Divide: The majority can’t access the internet, while a small urban section can, deepening inequalities.
Economic Losses: Past shutdowns in India caused significant economic losses, e.g., Kashmir’s 2019 blockade resulted in over five lakh unemployed people.
Decreased Information Flow: People can’t share or verify information due to the social media ban.
Surveillance Concerns: Internet access is tied to MAC Address binding, static IPs, and a ban on VPNs, enabling greater monitoring.
Violation of Rights: The restrictions infringe on rights to free expression, freedom of assembly, and privacy.
Economic Costs: Internet shutdowns lead to financial damage. In 2023, estimated losses reached Rs 2,091 crore in India.
Informal Sector Impact: The unorganized sector, often unreported, is hit hard, affecting sections like women more.
What is the judicial view on internet shutdown?
Fundamental Rights: The Supreme Court recognized the right to free expression and privacy through the internet as fundamental.
Limitations: Rights can only be limited in a reasonable and proportionate manner.
Anuradha Bhasin Judgment: Shutdowns violate fundamental rights. They must be proportional, reasonable, necessary, and the least restrictive.
No Indefinite Ban: Internet shutdowns can never be indefinite.
Court Intervention: The gradual lifting of suspensions in Jammu and Kashmir came after a court intervention.
State Accountability: Shutdowns often imposed by state authorities must be accountable.
