India leads ‘democratic nations’ in internet shutdowns in 2024: Report
IIOJK remains one of worst hit regions with 12 shutdowns in year
IndiaAShamDemocracy
Washington: India recorded 84 internet shutdowns in 2024, the highest among democratic nations, according to a report by digital rights organisation Access Now and the #KeepItOn coalition. Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) remained one of the worst-hit regions, with 12 shutdowns recorded throughout the year.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the report, titled Emboldened Offenders, Endangered Communities: Internet Shutdowns in 2024, exposed how Indian authorities continue to use digital blackouts remain as a tool to suppress dissent and control information.
For six consecutive years, India had held the global record for internet shutdowns until Myanmar narrowly surpassed it in 2024 with 85 shutdowns. However, India remained the leading “democracy” imposing digital blackouts, with shutdowns enforced across 16 states and territories.
Manipur (21 shutdowns), Haryana (12) and Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (12) were the worst-affected regions.
“Of the 84, 41 shutdowns were related to protests and 23 were related to communal violence,” the report stated.
In their report released last year on internet shutdowns in 2023, Access Now and #KeepItOn had recorded 116 shutdowns in India. Though India’s total shutdowns in 2024 were lower than recorded in 2023, the country remains a major contributor to global digital censorship.
The report highlights that internet shutdowns not only disrupt communication but also impact fundamental rights, economy, and access to emergency services.
