Thread by @internetfreedom

Short statement : The justification of the State of Haryana to impose an internet shutdown in Karnal on September 7 is incompatible with the Anuradha Bhasin Guidelines. The basis of an internet shutdown cannot be a vague apprehension of loss of life and property. 1/n

The order apprehends “disruption of public utilities and safety” and links it to the ability of the internet to “spread misinformation and rumours”. However, all these statements lack any factual basis such as specific inputs or past incidents. 2/n

https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1434915403109646340?s=20

Supreme Court has also at times held that the right to assembly and protest are democratic forms of dissent that must not be restrained. Hence there is a state duty to protect a protest and ensure its safety. Shutting down internet services does not advance state objectives. 3/n

The presence of internet in protest plays a positive role. It helps organise for health services and also bring accountability to protestors and the state authorities. We are disappointed with the decision to order the internet shutdown in Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, and Panipat.

In terms of next steps we will examine all options to contest their legality. Here public pressure is vital and we hope our community raises their voices against internet shutdowns. They can now occur in any Indian city, town or village and we all need to stop it. 5/5