Thread by @NetShutdowns

SFLC.in defines internet shutdowns as "a Government-imposed disablement of access to the Internet as a whole within a particular locality or localities for any duration of time" @APC_News @CYRILLA @gayatrikl

Internet shutdowns are generally instituted as a measure to curb violence & unrest in conflict ridden areas. Explanation offered by authorities is that the Internet makes it easier to spread rumors and false propaganda, making it more likely for violence to break out. @APC_News

There are primarily two acts under which Internet Shutdowns can be imposed by the government.
-Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code
-Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act coupled with Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services Rules which were notified in 2017. @CYRILLA

Prior to August'17, shutdowns used to be imposed using Sec 144 of CRPC but in August'17, Telecom Suspension Rules were notified under Section 7 of The Indian Telegraph Act. Shutdowns now are supposed to be issued only using the Telecom Suspension Rules. @APC_News @CYRILLA

Legally, Under Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act, telecom can be suspended - In interests of sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order or for preventing incitement to the commission of an offence.

Most shutdowns in India are ordered citing Public Emergency and Public Safety.

There are shutdowns that still occur under Section 144 of CRPC even after notification of Telecom Suspension Rules @CYRILLA @APC_News

@SFLCin recently challenged one such shutdown that occurred in #Hoogli District in #WestBengal. @APC_News @CYRILLA @gayatrikl

sflc.in/sflcin-moves-c…

The Supreme Court of India had laid down the law of the land in Anuradha Bhasin V. Union of India regarding Internet shutdowns. More details - sflc.in/sc-judgment-sa…

@APC_News @CYRILLA @gayatrikl