India faced 155 internet blackouts in 2023-24, report says

Internet shutdowns reached a new high in India over the past two years, according to a new report by the Software Freedom Law Centre, India (SFLC.in).

The report found that India experienced 155 internet blackouts during 2023 and 2024 combined, making it the country with the most shutdowns worldwide. SFLC.in revealed these findings in its latest report, “Let the Net Work 2.0,” launched on Feb. 17, 2025.

A closer look at the report

SFLC.in’s new publication is the second edition of a flagship release that first appeared in 2022. The report details how frequent internet suspensions in India disrupt essential services, hamper free expression and restrict dissent.

It also highlights how shutdowns hurt marginalized communities and create negative ripple effects on the economy and education. One section focuses on key legal battles, including court rulings that question the necessity of imposing these restrictions.

The organization is known for tracking the government’s orders to suspend internet access through its Internet Shutdown Tracker, which documents the date, location and reasons given for the disruptions.

High numbers of suspensions

In 2023 alone, SFLC.in recorded 96 shutdowns, which exceeded those in conflict-ridden countries such as Myanmar and Iran. These interruptions often stem from regional security concerns, protests or attempts to curb cheating during exams.

The report points out that local governments, including those in Haryana and Manipur, imposed multiple shutdowns in 2024 as well.

SFLC.in hopes that public awareness of these disruptions will lead to more thoughtful policies on internet shutdowns. Founder Mishi Choudhary said the report sheds light on how suspensions cut people off from online education and banking services, restrict the sharing of information and stifle free speech. She called on policymakers to treat internet access as a fundamental right rather than a privilege.

Established in 2010, SFLC.in is a donor-supported legal services organization that defends freedom in the digital world. Its members include lawyers, policy experts, technologists and citizens focused on promoting open knowledge, free expression, online privacy, innovation and equality in India.