Supreme Court Orders Unhindered Internet Access in Delhi

India's Supreme Court ordered on Sunday, October 11, 2026, that internet services must operate without hindrance in Delhi. The directive was part of proceedings concerning allegations that a prior court order, issued two days earlier, had been violated during protests on October 10.

The bench, comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, issued a six-point interim order. This order addressed not only internet connectivity but also metro and rail services, barricades, detentions, and the movement of lawyers and journalists. This marks one of the first instances of a court commenting on mobile internet suspensions around the Jantar Mantar area since July.

The court's direction was made without the actual internet suspension order being presented. The court record does not mention any order under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, nor does it detail the grounds for the shutdown or its review. Instead, the proceedings noted a submission regarding a "complete shutdown of the internet" and an assurance from the Solicitor General that "internet connection has been restored."

The issue arose as senior advocates brought to the court's attention that internet services had been suspended in the area. A petition by Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha also referenced "phone jammers." While the government denied allegations of illegal detention, the court documents do not explicitly deny that the internet was shut down.

The situation highlights ongoing concerns about digital rights and governmental authority in restricting information flow. The Supreme Court's order emphasizes the need to ensure unimpeded access to information and the functionality of digital services, particularly during public gatherings and protests.