Abstract
India has witnessed a rapid rise in the use of internet shutdowns and digital censorship, often justified by national security and public order concerns. However, this escalating trend has sparked significant debates around its implications on democratic freedoms, including the right to free speech, access to information, and privacy. This article explores the legal foundations, socio-economic impacts, and human rights concerns surrounding internet shutdowns and censorship laws in India, with an emphasis on judicial rulings, legislative frameworks, and the global implications of India’s digital governance. It further examines case studies of major shutdowns and offers recommendations for reforming existing laws to balance security concerns with the protection of fundamental rights.
Introduction
In an increasingly digital world, the internet has become an essential medium for communication, political participation, and economic activity. However, governments across the globe have sought to control or limit internet access in the name of national security, public order, and countering terrorism. India, the world’s largest democracy, has emerged as a leader in imposing internet shutdowns, often in regions experiencing political unrest, communal violence, or during protests. This article delves into India’s legal and policy framework concerning internet shutdowns and digital censorship, evaluating the justification for these measures, the broader implications for human rights, and the role of judicial oversight in ensuring proportionality and fairness.