Punjab Internet Clampdown widens: CM Mann cries foul

Chandigarh, February 18, 2024: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has further expanded the internet suspension in Punjab, now covering 20 police stations across seven districts. This comes as an extension of the initial order issued on February 15th, which limited the suspension to 11 police stations in three districts. The new restriction will remain in effect until midnight of February 24th.

This move has drawn criticism from Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who has called the decision “unnecessary and unwarranted”. He questioned the need for such a broad suspension, arguing that it disrupts daily life and hampers communication for residents. The Chief Minister has stated that he has taken up the matter with the Centre and demanded a revocation of the order.

The initial suspension was implemented in response to the “Bharat Bandh” call by farmer unions. The authorities expressed concerns about potential misuse of the internet to organize or spread misinformation during the protests. However, the expansion to seven districts raises questions about the justification for such a widespread restriction.