Internet services suspended in Punjab till Feb 24

India: Narendra Modi-led Indian government has extended the suspension of internet services in certain areas of Punjab districts, including Patiala, Sangrur, and Fatehgarh Sahib, until February 24, amid ongoing farmers’ protests.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the suspension, initially implemented from February 12 to 16 due to the farmers’ ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, now covers various police station areas in several districts. New Delhi invoked special powers under the Telegraph Act of 1885 to enact the suspension.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann raised concerns about the internet shutdown during a meeting on February 15 between three Indian ministers and farmer leaders in Chandigarh.

Meanwhile, the Haryana government has suspended mobile internet services and bulk SMS in several districts.

The farmers’ protests, led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, aim to address issues such as minimum support prices for crops and loan waivers. Despite efforts, farmers have been halted at border points between Punjab and Haryana, where they continue to stage demonstrations.