Poonam Nath

Mobile internet and data services suspended across Baksa following unrest

Digital Desk: Following a law-and-order crisis that emerged on Wednesday during the transfer of undertrial inmates from police custody to the district jail, the Assam government has suspended mobile internet services throughout Baksa district.

The decision was made after authorities received reports of public disturbances close to the Baksa District Jail, according to a formal notification released by the Home and Political Department.

The government expressed concern that the situation might worsen if inflammatory content or rumors were disseminated via social media and messaging apps.

To ensure that vital communication doesn't stop during this time, officials have explained that landline internet and voice calls will continue to operate.

With immediate effect and until further notice, all mobile internet and data services in the district are prohibited by the order issued by Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Tewari in accordance with Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017.

The government has issued a warning that any infraction of the order will result in legal action under Section 223 of the Indian Telegraph Act and other applicable provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.