Mobile Internet Cut Near Eight Delhi Detention Sites During Protests

The Union home ministry approved the suspension of mobile internet around at least eight places across Delhi that served as temporary jails for Saturday's protest. The order came from Union home secretary Govind Mohan and was dated October 9. It blocked mobile internet within 500 metres of each site from noon to 10pm on Saturday. The official order stated the step was necessary to keep public order and stop any incitement to commit crimes.

Detention Sites

The shutdown locations included Chhatrasal Stadium in Model Town, Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Bawana, and the Yamuna Sports Complex in east Delhi. Other sites were the Jasola Sports Complex in Sarita Vihar, a community centre in Daulatpur, two community centres in Chhawla, Jangli Ram Stadium in Kanjhawala, and Surajmal Stadium in Nangloi. The Delhi government had named these sites as temporary jails where authorities took thousands of protesters through the day, including Cockroach Janta Party activists. Supreme Court lawyers who faced detention went to the Yamuna Sports Complex, while student activists and Communist Party of India leaders were taken to Surajmal Stadium.

Police Request

Delhi Police had asked the ministry on Friday to cut internet services to prevent any trouble for law and order. Throughout the day, residents in east Delhi posted on social media about facing internet blocks and asked if a ban was active in their areas.

Context

Authorities frequently use temporary jails and local communication shutdowns during large protests to manage crowd movement and prevent the spread of messages. Such orders are typically issued under specific legal provisions governing temporary telecommunications suspensions during public emergencies.