Internet shutdown in Haryana districts till 5 Aug

NEW DELHI: The state government has issued an order to suspend internet services, all SMS services (excluding banking and mobile recharge) and other services provided on mobile networks except voice calls in the districts of Nuh, Faridabad, Palwal and territorial jurisdiction of Sub Division Sohna, Pataudi and Manesar in Gurugram until 5 August. All telecom service providers have been directed to comply. The order issued by the Home Secretary stated that Deputy Commissioners Nuh, Faridabad, Palwal and Gurugram reviewed law and order situation and recommended a suspension of internet services as their districts remain “critical”. Further the order stated that there is “a clear potential” of disruption of public utilities, damage to public assets and amenities and disturbance of public law and order in these areas on account of misuse of internet services by way of spread of inflammatory material and false rumours, transmitted through social media/ messaging services on mobile internet services, SMS services, etc.