India blocks mobile internet in central Delhi, sources say - Reuters

### Internet Services Suspended in Delhi, Impacting Protesters and Residents Alike

In a move that has sparked debates about digital rights and government control, the Indian authorities have reportedly blocked mobile internet services in a 1.5-kilometer radius around Jantar Mantar in central Delhi. The suspension, which is set to continue until midnight, coincides with a protest called by the Campaign for Judicial Accountability and Reforms (CJP), a rights group advocating for an independent judiciary in the country. According to sources, the move aims to hinder the spread of information and curtail protests, although the official reasons for the shutdown remain unclear.

The decision to suspend internet services has left many protesters and local residents feeling frustrated and disconnected from the outside world. In an interview with India Today, students participating in the CJP protest highlighted how the internet ban has left them struggling to stay in touch with their loved ones and follow updates on the event. While the protesters acknowledge the need for maintaining public order, they also contend that such drastic measures undermine their fundamental right to freedom of expression and information. As the nation grapples with the complex balance between public safety and digital freedom, experts continue to dissect the implications of this shutdown.

In light of this development, many are asking about the legal basis for such an internet shutdown. According to The Hindu, Section 144 of the CrPC (Code of Criminal Procedure) allows for the suspension of internet services when deemed necessary by the authorities to maintain law and order. Meanwhile, other provisions, such as the IT Act, may also come into play depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the protest. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial to examine the limits of these sections and their potential impact on the freedoms of the Indian citizenry.