The internet is a crucial part of modern life. During periods of unrest, the government sometimes resorts to shutting down internet access across entire regions. This happened recently in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, where a 48-hour internet ban was implemented after violence erupted related to the ‘I Love Muhammad’ dispute. This is a measure to combat the spread of misinformation and rumors.
Why Shut Down the Internet?
The internet in India has, on occasion, been misused to spark communal tensions and violence. Social media platforms facilitate the rapid dissemination of false news, rumors, and inflammatory content. To maintain order and quell unrest, the government will temporarily suspend internet services in affected areas.
How are Internet Services Suspended?
Think of it like switching off your home Wi-Fi router. If the router is off, your devices won’t receive a Wi-Fi signal, and the internet won’t work. Similarly, mobile towers transmit internet signals.
To shut down the internet across a city or region, the government orders the shutdown of mobile towers in that area. Upon receiving the order, telecom companies cease providing network services through these towers.
The Role of ISPs
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in India operate under government directives. The government can directly order ISPs to shut down internet services in specific areas or states. Once the order is received, ISPs cut off network access, resulting in a complete internet blackout across the city.