The Haryana government has ordered the suspension of mobile internet services and bulk short messaging service (SMS) in specific areas of Ambala district for a period of 48 hours, effective from Wednesday. The shutdown, directed under the jurisdiction of three police stations—Sadar Ambala, Panjokhera, and Naggal—is set to remain in place until Thursday midnight.
The decision to impose the temporary ban comes amidst concerns over the ‘Delhi Chalo’ call issued by farmers’ organizations stationed along the Punjab border. Following the tragic death of a young farmer on the Datta Singhwala-Khanauri border, the protesters have announced plans to resume their march on February 29. To maintain law and order and prevent potential disruptions, authorities have opted to restrict mobile internet services in the specified regions.
Initially suspended on February 11 across seven districts of Haryana due to ongoing farmer protests, mobile services were reinstated on February 25. However, with the resumption of the farmers’ agitation and the imminent resurgence of the ‘Delhi Chalo’ movement, the state government has deemed it necessary to reinstate the temporary suspension of mobile internet services in select areas.
The order issued by the Department of Home Affairs stipulates that individual SMS, voice calls, banking SMS, and specific internet services provided by broadband and lease lines of corporate and household nature will remain unaffected by the shutdown. This strategic exemption aims to minimize disruption to essential communication channels while ensuring compliance with the imposed restrictions.
As the ‘Delhi Chalo’ movement gains momentum once again, the Haryana government remains vigilant in its efforts to maintain public safety and security. The suspension of mobile internet services in targeted areas underscores the authorities’ proactive measures to mitigate potential risks and uphold law and order amidst ongoing socio-political developments.
Sources By Agencies
