India
Local authorities ordered mobile Internet and public WiFi services to be suspended in Poonch and Rajouri District of Jammu Province, India, on 7 February from 00:10 to 23:30 local time to prevent misuse of these services by ‘anti-national elements/miscreants, which may cause deterioration in public order.’
According to reports, this action was taken following the government of India’s decision to grant Scheduled Tribe status to Paharis, Padari, Koli, and Gadda Brahmins for reservations in the Union Territory.
Internet shutdowns during protests or civil unrest impact the citizens’ ability to get accurate information from government sources when they need it most. It also becomes harder for citizens to contact family members and friends in other parts of the country or other countries.
Disheartened to hear internet shutdown in Poonch and Rajouri again, especially during exams. 📚 The timing is tough for students and disrupts essential activities. 🚫 Urging @OfficeOfLGJandK @PoonchDm to address this issue for a smoother routine. #InternetShutdown #Poonch #Pahari
— Adil Nazir Qurashi (@adilnazirtweets) February 7, 2024
It’s difficult to measure the effect of local/regional Internet shutdowns as most measurements are done at a country level.
Indian occupied Jammu & Kashmir
Internet has been shutdown in Naushera, Rajouri, Poonch, Talar & rest of areas of occupied land as a result of massive protests that have erupted by Indian state illegally granting fake tribal status to Paharis, Padari Tribes, Koli & Gadda Brahmins— Bharwana (@pain___killer) February 7, 2024
Internet shut down in Poonch, Rajouri after GoI grants ST status to Brahmins and Paharis in JK – Free Press Kashmir
Jammu: Mobile Internet Service Stopped In Rajouri-Poonch – Amar Ujala Hindi News Live