Thread by @NetShutdowns

What are Internet Shutdowns?
We define an #internetshutdown as "a Government-imposed disablement of access to the Internet as a whole within a particular locality or localities for any duration of time".
#LetTheNetWork
#keepItOn

There are two key-components to this definition: An Internet shutdown is always Government-imposed i.e. Internet Service Providers serving the locality in question are ordered by an agency of the Government to cut-off Internet services to that area.
#LetTheNetwork

An Internet shutdown always imposes a blanket ban on Internet access, where access to the Internet as a whole is disabled, and not a surgical ban, where access to particular content/services is disabled leaving access to other content/services unaffected.
#BlanketBan

Why are #InternetShutdowns imposed?
Internet shutdowns are generally instituted as a measure to curb violence and unrest in conflict ridden areas.
#LetTheNetWork #keepiton

Internet shutdowns have also been imposed in India for far more trivial reasons such as preventing cheating during exams & mitigating tensions during a highly anticipated wrestling match.
#LetTheNetWork
#KeepItOn #internetshutdown

The Internet Shutdown imposed on Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370 lasted for 213 days, making it the longest #internetshutdown ever. The Union Territory still has access to #2G internet only.
#Restore4GinJK

The Government of Indian has so far imposed 433 #Internetshutdowns making #India the #InternetShutdownCapital of the world.
#LetTheNetWork #keepItOn