Haryana Government Orders Internet Suspension Ahead of Farmers' March in Delhi

Aimed at Preventing Public Disturbance and Ensuring Safety

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February 10, 2024

In anticipation of the upcoming farmers' march or agitation scheduled for the 13th of February in Delhi, the Department of Home Affairs of the Haryana government has taken a proactive step by issuing an order for the suspension of internet services in several districts.

The order, issued under section 5 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and rule 2 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017, aims to prevent potential tension, annoyance, damage to public and private property, and disturbance of public peace and tranquillity.

The order highlights the apprehension of disturbance and disruption of public utilities, damage to public assets, and disturbance of public law and order due to the misuse of internet services. There is a concern regarding the spread of inflammatory material and false rumours through social media platforms, messaging services, SMS, and other dongle services, which could lead to serious consequences such as loss of life and damage to properties.

Therefore, in exercise of powers conferred upon the Chief Secretary of the Government of Haryana, the Home Secretary has ordered the suspension of mobile services, bulk SMS, and dongle services in specific districts including Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad, and Sirsa. The order exempts individual SMS, mobile recharge, banking SMS, voice calls, internet services provided by broadband, and leased lines of corporate and domestic households to ensure minimal disruption to essential services.

The order, effective from 11th February 2024, 6:00 hours to 13th February 2024, 23:59 hours, emphasises its issuance in view of the emergent situation and warns of legal action against violators. It underscores the government's commitment to maintaining peace and public order while ensuring the safety and security of citizens.

The additional chief secretary to the Government of Haryana, Home Department, has affirmed the necessity of this order to prevent any potential disturbance and safeguard public interests during this critical period. The Order issued by Department of Home Affairs-