Delhi internet shutdown: Why do 2024 Telecom Rules say about suspension orders?

Delhi experienced an internet shutdown on October 10, 2026, in response to a protest organized by the Cockroach Janta Party at Jantar Mantar. Mobile internet services were suspended for 24 hours in parts of central Delhi, following a directive from the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Special Cell (HQ), Delhi to the nodal officers of Airtel, Vodafone Idea, Reliance Jio, and MTNL.

The suspension was authorized by the Union Home Secretary after receiving a request from the Delhi Police. The 2024 Telecom Rules specify the conditions under which authorities can suspend internet services and the requirements for publishing suspension orders. Any suspension order must be published, clearly state the reasons, define the affected geographical area and type of telecommunication service, and specify a duration not exceeding 15 days.

The order must also be reviewed by a committee and, if found non-compliant, may be set aside. The 2024 rules emphasize the need for proportionality in restrictions on fundamental rights, requiring that any suspension of internet services must be necessary and no more restrictive than required to achieve a legitimate objective, such as ensuring public safety or preventing incitement to the commission of an offence.