SFLC.in’s second edition of ‘Let the Net Work 2.0’ uncovers how frequent internet blackouts are impacting India’s democracy, economy, and digital rights.
Software Freedom Law Centre, India (SFLC.in), a leading nonprofit advocating for digital rights, will release its Internet Shutdown Report 2024 on February 17, 2025. Titled ‘Let the Net Work 2.0,’ this second edition builds on SFLC.in’s earlier findings, presenting a comprehensive analysis of 155 internet shutdowns imposed across India in 2023-24. The report sheds light on the economic damage, disruption of essential services, suppression of dissent, and legal concerns surrounding internet blackouts.
The launch event, set to be held virtually, will feature legal experts, journalists, and policymakers discussing the report’s findings and the increasing use of internet shutdowns as a governance tool in India. Notable speakers include Anuradha Bhasin, Managing Editor of The Kashmir Times, and Vrinda Grover, Supreme Court advocate known for her work in digital rights and free speech cases.
India’s Internet Blackout Crisis: Leading the World in Shutdowns
According to SFLC.in’s Internet Shutdown Tracker, India continues to lead the world in government-imposed internet shutdowns, surpassing even conflict-ridden nations like Myanmar (37 shutdowns) and Iran (34 shutdowns) in 2023. Despite Supreme Court rulings emphasizing internet access as a fundamental right, state governments have increasingly used blackouts as a means to control information, particularly during protests, political unrest, and examinations.
Mishi Choudhary, Founder of SFLC.in, remarked on the report’s significance, stating, “Internet shutdowns disrupt lives, silence voices, and curb opportunities in unimaginable ways. With ‘Let the Net Work 2.0,’ we aim to highlight the devastating consequences of these shutdowns and urge policymakers to uphold digital freedoms. Internet access is not a privilege but a necessity, and we must protect this right for every citizen.”
The Economic Toll of Internet Blackouts
One of the most alarming findings in the report is the massive financial losses incurred due to internet shutdowns. India’s economy suffered an estimated ₹24,000 crore ($2.9 billion) in losses in 2023-24 alone, affecting industries such as IT, e-commerce, banking, and education. Startups, small businesses, and freelancers were hit hardest, with many experiencing delayed transactions, canceled contracts, and revenue losses.
Key economic impacts of internet shutdowns:
- E-commerce and Digital Payments: UPI transactions and mobile banking were severely disrupted in regions facing prolonged blackouts.
- IT and Outsourcing Industry: Businesses faced missed deadlines and disrupted workflows, particularly in tech hubs like Bangalore and Gurugram.
- Freelancers and Small Businesses: Many lost international clients and projects due to unexpected connectivity issues.
- Stock Market and Financial Sector: Trading activities slowed down in regions where the internet was suspended, affecting market participation.
Impact on Education and Healthcare
Internet blackouts also had severe consequences for education and healthcare. The report documents cases where students were unable to access online classes, submit applications, or attend virtual exams. Telemedicine services were also interrupted, leaving patients in remote areas without timely medical consultations.Vrinda Grover, Supreme Court advocate and digital rights expert, emphasized, “The government’s increasing use of internet shutdowns directly violates the right to education and access to information. There must be legal accountability for these arbitrary blackouts.”
Legal Challenges and Court Rulings
The report examines key legal battles challenging internet shutdowns in India. One of the most significant cases highlighted is Anuradha Bhasin v. Union of India (2020), where the Supreme Court of India ruled that internet access is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the Constitution. Despite this landmark judgment, governments continue to impose shutdowns under the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services Rules, 2017, often citing vague national security concerns.
The report also explores judicial interventions in cases such as Arunachal Pradesh v. Union of India, where courts questioned the necessity of blanket shutdowns for maintaining law and order. SFLC.in argues for stricter judicial oversight to prevent arbitrary internet suspensions.
The Role of SFLC.in’s Internet Shutdown Tracker
SFLC.in has been actively monitoring and documenting government-imposed internet blackouts through its Internet Shutdown Tracker. The tracker provides real-time updates on internet suspensions, offering transparency on where, when, and why shutdowns occur. It serves as a critical tool for journalists, researchers, and human rights organizations tracking the erosion of digital freedoms in India.
Syed Mohammad Haroon, Volunteer Legal Counsel at SFLC.in and project lead for the tracker, stated, “Our tracker exposes the alarming rise in internet shutdowns across India. Transparency is the first step toward accountability, and we urge citizens to stay informed about their digital rights.”
What to Expect from the Report Launch Event
The virtual launch of ‘Let the Net Work 2.0’ on February 17, 2025, will feature discussions with key stakeholders advocating for digital rights, press freedom, and legal reform. Speakers include:
- Anuradha Bhasin – Managing Editor, The Kashmir Times
- Vrinda Grover – Supreme Court Advocate
- Felicia Anthonio – KeepItOn Campaign Manager, Access Now
- Syed Mohammad Haroon – SFLC.in Legal Counsel & Internet Shutdown Tracker Lead