Authorities in India frequently resort to internet shutdowns as a means to curb disinformation and maintain control, but the impact on communication, information access, and economic stability is devastating.
India, a country known for its technological advancements and digital innovations, holds the unfortunate distinction of leading the world in internet shutdowns. While India harnesses the power of connected technology for various purposes, including a biometric ID database, digital payment systems, and space exploration programs, authorities are quick to sever internet service in times of political unrest or sectarian violence. These shutdowns, which have become the government’s go-to tool, cut off millions of people who rely on the internet for communication, information, and business. This article explores the consequences of India’s internet shutdowns, delving into the impact on individuals, the economy, and the spread of disinformation.
Severed Connections: The Devastating Consequences of Internet Blackouts
India has earned the dubious distinction of being the global leader in internet shutdowns, with 84 out of the 187 recorded worldwide in 2022. The reasons cited for these shutdowns range from protests to the prevention of cheating during exams. However, the government’s reliance on this tactic to shape its narrative and suppress dissenting voices often overlooks the severe consequences that follow. Human Rights Watch argues that these shutdowns disproportionately affect the poorest individuals who rely on the government’s online social support systems. In 2022 alone, approximately 121 million people were affected by shutdowns, hindering their access to essential services and exacerbating inequalities.
Economic Fallout: The Cost of Disconnectivity
The economic impact of internet shutdowns in India cannot be understated. In Indian-administered Kashmir, a 500-day blackout in 2019 and 2020 resulted in a loss of over $2.4 billion for the local economy. The loss of internet access hampers trade and commerce, affecting everyone from market vegetable sellers to larger businesses reliant on online payment platforms. Individuals like Mark Fanai, who worked from home in Manipur for a New Delhi-based law firm, found themselves struggling to make ends meet when the internet was cut off. The loss of connectivity forced him to spend hours commuting to send emails and make online payments. Ultimately, he had to relocate to a different state, highlighting the disruptive impact on personal and professional lives.
Silencing Journalists: Impeding the Freedom of the Press
Internet shutdowns not only affect individuals and the economy but also hinder the work of journalists. When protests in Maharashtra state turned violent, authorities responded by shutting down the internet for three days. This move made it extremely challenging for journalists like Vinod Jire to report on the incident accurately. Jire had to leave the district to file his story, illustrating the obstacles faced by journalists in their pursuit of reporting facts and news. The silencing of journalists not only curtails their freedom but also limits the public’s access to reliable information during critical times.
The Illusion of Control: Addressing Disinformation and Conflict
Authorities in India justify internet shutdowns as a means to curb disinformation and prevent the spread of rumors on social media or messaging applications. However, advocates for internet access argue that fact-checking and verification are the primary defenses against misinformation, which predominantly occur online. Tanmay Singh from the Internet Freedom Foundation emphasizes that internet blackouts do not address the root causes of conflict, even if they temporarily slow the spread of hate. In Manipur, where ethnic violence has divided communities, indigenous tribal leader Ginza Vualzong asserts that internet bans do not solve underlying issues.
Conclusion:
India’s frequent use of internet shutdowns as a tool to control information and quell unrest has far-reaching consequences. These shutdowns sever communication, hinder economic stability, and impede the freedom of the press. While authorities argue that internet blackouts curb disinformation, they fail to address the root causes of conflict and inadvertently exacerbate divisions. As India continues to navigate the digital age and strive for progress, it must find alternative ways to maintain control without sacrificing the fundamental rights and well-being of its citizens.
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