Myanmar tops the list with 85 shutdowns, while India records 84, driven by conflicts, protests, and elections.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – For the first time since 2018, India has dropped to second place in global internet shutdowns, according to a report by digital rights group Access Now. The report reveals that Myanmar led the world in 2024 with 85 internet shutdowns, closely followed by India with 84. This marks a significant shift, as India had previously topped the list for five consecutive years.
The findings highlight a troubling global trend, with 54 countries ordering 296 internet shutdowns in 2024, up from 39 countries and 283 shutdowns in 2023. “The increasing frequency of internet shutdowns worldwide is alarming,” said a spokesperson for Access Now. “These disruptions not only violate digital rights but also hinder access to essential services and information.”
In India, the majority of shutdowns were linked to conflicts, protests, communal violence, exam cheating, and elections. The report notes that 41 shutdowns were imposed during protests, while 23 were due to communal violence. Manipur experienced the highest number of shutdowns at 21, followed by Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana with 12 each. “The prolonged violence in Manipur has led to repeated internet blackouts, severely impacting daily life and communication,” the report stated.
Other countries on the list include Pakistan, Russia, Ukraine, Palestine, and Bangladesh. Pakistan recorded 21 shutdowns, including a nationwide blackout on February 8, the day of its general elections. Russia shut down the internet in Ukraine seven times, while Palestine faced six shutdowns amid the conflict with Israel. Bangladesh recorded five shutdowns, and China and Thailand disrupted phone and internet services in Myanmar.
Activists have condemned the widespread use of internet shutdowns as a tool to control the dissemination of information. “Internet shutdowns are a blunt instrument used to suppress dissent and control information,” said a human rights advocate. “They disproportionately affect vulnerable communities and undermine democratic processes.”
The report underscores the urgent need for international action to address the growing trend of internet censorship. “Governments must prioritise transparency and accountability,” urged the Access Now spokesperson. “Shutdowns should never be the default response to crises.”
