Since 2012, India has experienced over 900 internet access shutdowns, making it one of the countries most affected by this type of restriction. These interruptions pose a major threat to press freedom, freedom of expression and journalists’ right to inform the public. In partnership with the Software Freedom Law Center (SFLC), a defender of free and open source software, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has created a video explaining technical aspects and offering practical recommendations for media professionals.
VIDEO
In India, internet shutdowns particularly affect journalists working in remote or conflict-prone regions such as Jammu and Kashmir, the northeastern states, or areas with communal tensions.
For reporters, internet access is not a luxury but an essential tool for transmitting information, verifying sources and ensuring personal safety. When connectivity is cut off or reduced to 2G speeds, journalists are suddenly isolated, unable to publish in real time and exposed to higher risks. During these periods, independent newsrooms struggle to maintain operations.
Authorities often justify shutdowns as necessary for maintaining public order and security, but data shows they do not prevent violence and can even exacerbate social tensions. According to the United Nations, which recorded over 300 government-imposed internet shutdowns in 54 countries over the past two years, these practices directly threaten freedom of expression and citizens’ fundamental right to information.
Localised shutdowns in certain Indian states
Shutdowns particularly affect journalists in isolated or conflict zones, such as Jammu and Kashmir, the northeastern states, and regions prone to communal tensions. For field reporters, internet is a vital tool for transmitting information in real time, verifying sources, and maintaining personal safety.
When internet is cut or slowed to 2G speeds, journalists are isolated, unable to publish, and exposed to higher risks. Independent newsrooms also struggle to maintain operations, affecting the information available to the public.
Legal recourse and press freedom protection in India
In India, there are several ways of legally challenging arbitrary shutdowns:
- Constitutional remedies: Journalists and media outlets can petition high courts or the Supreme Court through writ petitions, citing violations of Article 19(1)(a) on freedom of expression.
- Key legal obligations: The Anuradha Bhasin v. Union of India (2020) ruling requires that any shutdown be legal, necessary, proportionate and temporary, and that such orders be published.
- Transparency requirements: Journalists can demand that these orders be published and the responsible authorities identified.
- Administrative oversight: Decisions can be reviewed by committees, especially in cases of excessive duration or lack of justification.
- Documenting impacts: Media can compile evidence of real-world impact — work interruptions, economic losses, increased risk to journalists, and spread of misinformation.
- Strategic litigation: NGOs, such as SFLC.in, can support legal challenges, provide assistance and establish precedents favouring press freedom.
- Deterrent Effect: Sustained legal mobilisation helps regulate authorities’ practices and limit arbitrary shutdowns.
By combining technical preparedness and legal vigilance, journalists can continue to inform the public, ensure their safety and defend the right to information, even during prolonged internet shutdowns.
FOR FURTHER READING
Discover the article: “Internet shutdowns: Understanding and responding as a journalist”
Check out the India Toolbox
This article is also available in Hindi