Internet Shutdowns in 2024 Report by Advocacy Body Access Now

Internet Shutdowns in 2024 Report by Advocacy Body Access Now

A report by Access Now reveals that global internet shutdowns reached a record high in 2024, with India leading in government-imposed restrictions.

Key Findings of the Report:

• A total of 296 shutdowns were recorded across 54 countries in 2024, an increase from 283 in 2023.
• Myanmar (85 shutdowns), India (84), Pakistan (21), and Russia (19) accounted for 71% of the total shutdowns.
• Human Rights Concerns: 72 shutdowns were associated with significant human rights violations, including war crimes, police brutality, and airstrikes.

India-Specific Findings:

• India recorded 84 shutdowns, the highest in any democracy, affecting 16 states and territories.
• Primary Reasons for Shutdowns: Protests, elections, communal violence, and examinations.

Legal Provisions for Internet Shutdowns in India:

• Legal Basis: Governed by the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024, under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
• Mandate for Publication: Suspension orders must be published, including detailed justifications, geographical scope, and affected services.
• Duration: Suspension cannot exceed 15 days.
• Authority: The order can be issued by the Union Home Secretary (for Central Government) or the Secretary to the State Government in charge of the Home Department (for State Governments).
• Section 144 of CrPC: Authorities often use this provision (Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita) to impose restrictions.

Anuradha Bhasin Case (2020) Judgment:
The Supreme Court ruled that internet restrictions must be temporary, lawful, necessary, and proportionate

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