Delhi Protests: Internet Restricted, Journalists Detained
Student protests at Jantar Mantar in Delhi have been accompanied by reports of internet restrictions and the detention of journalists and content creators.
Student protests ongoing at Delhi's Jantar Mantar have led to widespread internet restrictions and authorities' actions to curb movement. The demonstrations, centered on alleged discrepancies in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process and calls for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, have seen authorities shut down internet services within a four-kilometer radius of the protest site. Public transportation, including metro and rail services, has also been disrupted.
The crackdown has extended to media professionals. Three reporters from Newslaundry have reportedly been arrested along with other journalists and students. Prominent YouTuber Dhruv Rathee has been detained in Gurugram, and CJP founder Abhijit Dipke was detained while on a flight. Additionally, several content creators, including the parody account NetaFlix and creator Satvik Soni, have faced censorship measures, such as content takedowns or account restrictions within India.
Further digital developments include the deployment of drones for security monitoring and discussions around police use of body cameras without established operating procedures. These actions have raised concerns regarding freedom of speech and access to information in India.