India Tops Global Internet Shutdowns in 2023, Fueling Youth Anger and Protests
India has topped the global charts for internet speed tests in 2023, with a staggering 41% of worldwide suspensions. Notably, the region of Jammu & Kashmir experienced a prolonged 213-day blackout. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has recognised internet access as crucial for free expression, setting guidelines for such restrictions.
In Ladakh, young citizens expressed their discontent for months, seeking protection for their delicate environment and constitutional safeguards. However, their concerns went unaddressed, ultimately leading to mass protests. Similarly, in Nepal, an attempt to curb discontent by restricting social media backfired, sparking street protests instead. India's frequent blanket restrictions have fueled anger and eroded trust in the state's responsiveness.
Social media has emerged as a powerful tool in India, amplifying causes like #MeTooIndia, #PinjraTod, #DalitLivesMatter, and even influencing judicial recognition of the Right to Privacy. The government has taken steps to establish a rights-based digital framework, launching the Sahyog platform in 2024 to facilitate content removal requests. However, ignoring or stifling online dissent risks destabilizing credibility, particularly in sensitive regions like Ladakh. For Gen Z, silence or suppression on social media is seen as a betrayal.
India stands at a crossroads. It can either persist with blanket internet speed tests and dismissive politics, risking further unrest and erosion of state credibility. Or, it can shift towards a rights-based digital framework, treating shutdowns as exceptions and promptly addressing youth concerns. The government's regulatory approach, focusing on transparency and restraint, aims to balance digital rights with stability and security.
