In response to the ongoing farmers’ agitation and their march towards New Delhi, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed the suspension of internet services in selected areas under specific police stations in Patiala, Sangrur, and Fatehgarh Sahib districts. The suspension, effective from 6 pm on February 12, will remain in force until 11.59 pm on February 16, impacting various regions identified in the directive.
A senior official from the Punjab government, preferring anonymity, revealed that the MHA issued a letter on January 12, instructing the suspension of internet services during the specified period. The directive encompasses particular areas falling under identified police stations in the three districts, aiming to manage the situation arising from the farmers’ protest.
“It appears that the instructions have been based on certain inputs received from the Intelligence Bureau (IB), as a copy of the letter has also been marked to the Director IB,” stated the official, highlighting the security concerns prompting the decision.
The affected areas in Patiala district include Shatrana, Samana, Ghanour, Devigarh, and Balbhera police stations.
In Sangrur district, the suspension applies to Khanauri, Moonak, Lehra, Sunam, and Chajli police station limits. Fatehgarh Sahib district experiences internet service disruption in areas under Fatehgarh Sahib police station.
The orders for internet suspension have been issued under Section 7 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, read in conjunction with Sub-rule 1 of Rule 2 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules 2017. The decision is framed in the interest of maintaining public safety and preventing potential public emergencies amidst the ongoing farmers’ protests.
As the suspension period extends until February 16, residents and businesses in the affected regions may experience disruptions in their online activities, emphasizing the broader impact of the government’s measures in response to the farmers’ movement.