India’s dominance in internet shutdowns has ended after a decade-long streak. A new report by Access Now reveals that Myanmar ordered the highest number of shutdowns at 85, surpassing India’s 84 shutdown orders. The total number of global internet shutdowns increased from 283 in 2023 to 296 this year, affecting 54 countries.
Internet shutdowns were triggered by conflict, protests, and communal violence in India, with 41 related to protests and 23 to communal violence. States like Manipur, Jammu and Kashmir, and Haryana were heavily affected. Pakistan, Russia, Ukraine, Palestine, and Bangladesh also saw significant disruptions.
The report highlights “cross-border shutdowns” caused by cyberattacks and military actions. For example, Russia’s cyberattack on Ukrainian internet providers led to 7 instances of shutdowns, while Israel’s assault on Gaza resulted in 6 recorded instances in Palestine.
Myanmar’s shutdowns were attributed to Thai authorities’ efforts to curb cybercrime, which affected vulnerable populations relying on Thai networks. The Access Now report emphasizes that India’s unacceptably high number of shutdowns remains a concern for the world’s largest democracy.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-didn-t-lead-world-in-internet-shutdowns-in-2024-2access-now-report-101740369115222.html