Haryana extends mobile internet ban amid ongoing farmers’ agitation

The Haryana government, on Saturday, announced a further extension of the mobile internet and bulk SMS services ban across seven districts until February 19, in response to the continuing farmers’ agitation. This decision affects the districts of Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad, and Sirsa, marking an ongoing effort to prevent the escalation of tensions and ensure public safety amid protests.

This move follows previous extensions of the internet suspension on February 13 and 15, underlining the government’s concern over the potential misuse of digital platforms to spread inflammatory materials and false rumors that could disrupt public utilities, damage assets, and disturb the peace. The order, articulated by Haryana’s Additional Chief Secretary T V S N Prasad, cites the critical and tense situation in these areas as a rationale for the continued restrictions.

Implemented under the provisions of Section 5 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and Rule 2 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017, the ban encompasses mobile internet services, bulk SMS excluding banking and mobile recharges, and all dongle services provided on mobile networks, with the exception of voice calls.

The backdrop to this governmental action is the steadfast presence of protesting farmers at Shambhu and Khanauri border points with Punjab, now entering its fifth day. The protesters, halted in their ‘Delhi Chalo’ march aimed at pressing the Centre for various demands, have encountered clashes with security forces. Key demands from the protesting farmers include a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations, pensions for farmers and farm laborers, farm debt waivers, no increase in electricity tariffs, withdrawal of police cases, justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation for families affected by the previous year’s agitations.

The Haryana government’s decision to extend the mobile internet ban highlights the complexities of managing public safety and freedom of expression during times of civil unrest. While intended to prevent misinformation and protect public assets, such measures also raise concerns about the impact on communication and the right to peaceful protest. The farmers’ agitation underscores the deep-rooted issues within India’s agricultural sector and the need for meaningful dialogue and resolution between the government and the farming community. As this situation evolves, it serves as a critical reminder of the importance of balancing security measures with the fundamental rights of citizens.