[bestbits] Internet Shutdowns

[Mishi Choudhary]

I am aware that its early for IGF but I would really like to get the
benefit of people's experience on this list. We are organizing a panel
on "Analyzing the causes and impacts of Internet shutdowns."

SFLC.in has been tracking website take down for over 5 years and
Internet shutdowns in India for last 3 years. Since 2013, there have
been 32 times internet has been shutdown in different states of the
country, 12 times in 2016 itself. You can find more information at
http://sflc.in/internet-shutdown-tracker-india-2013-2016/


India has seen numerous Internet shutdowns for various reasons in this
year, all under the same provision of law – Section 144 of the Code of
Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC). This section resides as the sole
occupant under the chapter of ‘temporary measures to maintain public
tranquility’ and gives State Governments the power to issue orders for
immediate remedy in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger.
However, the increasing use of this provision to completely shut down
the Internet is becoming a cause of concern, for the reason that it
amounts to a direct violation of the fundamental right to freedom of
speech guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India.

You are most likely aware of the July 1 resolution passed by the Human
Rights Council condemning these network disruptions for stifling of
freedom of expression. Are there issues, questions that people think
should be highlighted in our discussion? We will have some great people
to discuss the issue, some of you are on this list. Is there anyone who
would like to be included? Any other suggestions are deeply appreciated.

-- 
Warm Regards
Mishi Choudhary, Esq.
Legal Director
Software Freedom Law Center
1995 Broadway Floor 17| New York, NY-10023
Direct: +1-212-461-1912| Main: +1-212-461-1901| Fax: +1-212-580-0898
www.softwarefreedom.org



President and Executive Director
SFLC.IN
K-9, Second Floor, Jangpura Extn.| New Delhi-110014
Main: +91-11-43587126 | Fax: +91-11-24323530
www.sflc.in



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