Delhi: Authorities in Haryana have imposed a temporary internet shutdown in select areas of Faridabad district ahead of a scheduled demolition drive, restricting mobile internet services as a preventive security measure.
The order applies to a one-kilometre radius in the NIT Zone of Faridabad and will remain in effect from 12:30 am to 10 pm on Saturday.
Services suspended in restricted zone
Under the directive issued by the Home Department, all mobile internet services, including 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G, have been suspended in the notified area. Bulk SMS services and dongle-based internet access have also been restricted, while voice calls, banking SMS, mobile recharge messages and broadband services have been exempted.
The move was taken under provisions of the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and associated temporary suspension rules.
Reason behind the shutdown
According to the government order, the decision was based on inputs from senior police and district administration officials who flagged concerns about potential public unrest during the demolition drive.
Authorities cited risks of crowd mobilisation, misinformation and possible disturbances through social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram and X.
The order stated that such disruptions could lead to law-and-order issues, including damage to public and private property. The Haryana government said the restrictions were imposed as an emergency preventive step to maintain public order in the area during the operation.
Officials added that the temporary curbs are intended to prevent the spread of rumours and ensure that the demolition drive is carried out without interference or escalation. The shutdown is geographically limited to a designated zone in NIT Faridabad and is not a statewide measure.
Internet and SMS services are expected to be restored after 10 pm once the order expires, unless extended by authorities depending on the situation on the ground.