India Ranked Second Globally for Internet Shutdowns in 2024

In 2024, India experienced internet shutdowns in a total of 84 instances. Now it is recorded as the second most internet blackout after the 113 shutdowns recorded in 2023. Even though the numbers have reduced a lot, still India ranked second globally for the number of internet shutdowns, just behind Myanmar, which had 85 shutdowns.

Reasons and Affect Of Internet Shutdown

In 2024, there were 296 internet shutdowns in 54 countries, which is 35% more than the previous year. This rise shows the ongoing problems with access to information and digital rights worldwide. Since 2024 was called the "year of democracy," elections took place in at least 64 countries, affecting nearly half of the world's population. But this also led to more internet shutdowns related to elections, with 12 cases reported in eight countries.

According to the Access Now report, India needs to solve the issue of internet shutdowns because they go against the country’s goal of becoming a global leader in artificial intelligence, digital governance, and skilling. The report also called for the removal of laws that violate people's rights and the creation of rules to prevent future shutdowns.

Overall, the large number of internet shutdowns in India and worldwide in 2024 shows why protecting digital rights and ensuring access to information is important.