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In the latest episode of the State of the Economy podcast, the topic of the Indian government’s use of internet shutdowns to control conflict and ethnic violence is discussed. The conversation sheds light on concerning trends and their impact on various aspects of society, particularly focusing on the situation in Manipur.

According to a recent report by Surfshark’s Internet Shutdown Tracker, India ranks second only to Iran in the number of internet shutdowns during the first half of 2023. This highlights the prevalence of this issue in the country.

The discussion highlights that internet shutdowns have far-reaching consequences. They result in economic setbacks for gig workers, damage to identity representation, stifling of dissent, and disruption of communication networks. Specifically in Manipur, shutdowns have created an information gap, leading to misinformation, violence, and even heinous crimes.

The negative impact of internet shutdowns is evident in various areas such as relief efforts, news reporting, and people’s daily lives. Alternative means of communication are not widespread or reliable enough to compensate for the loss of internet access, further exacerbating the problem.

The alarming statistics of India’s internet shutdowns call for greater accountability. The Supreme Court has laid out strict guidelines for shutdowns, including public disclosure of orders, proportionality, and necessity, in the Anuradha Bhasin versus Union of India case.

One potential danger discussed is the selective app banning, where encrypted platforms might be blocked. This compromises privacy and security and could lead to further violation of fundamental rights.

Overall, the podcast emphasizes the urgent need for adherence to legal frameworks and accountability measures. It highlights the importance of protecting citizens’ rights and well-being in the face of internet shutdowns.

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