Controversy Surrounds Internet Disruption After Delhi Building Collapse

In the wake of a tragic building collapse in Delhi’s Satya Niketan neighborhood on Sunday, which resulted in the deaths of at least seven individuals and left several others injured, social media has erupted with accusations suggesting that the government intentionally throttled internet speeds in the area. The incident has sparked significant concern among residents and student activists who claim that the slowdown was a strategic move to prevent the dissemination of information and curb potential protests.

Harsh Mamnani, an independent video journalist based in Delhi, took to Instagram on Monday to voice his frustration over the slow mobile internet service he experienced while attempting to report from the disaster site. Mamnani, who has been covering the incident daily, stated that he believed the government was responsible for the hindered connectivity, asserting, “I am pretty sure they [the government] did it.” His remarks echo the sentiments of many who find themselves questioning the government’s actions during sensitive situations.

The day of the collapse and the following day saw numerous student activists visiting the area, and some, like Sagar Suman, a doctoral student at Jawaharlal Nehru University and member of the Disha Students’ Organisation, alleged that “jammers” were deployed to disrupt communication. Suman expressed concern that the government aimed to limit the spread of videos documenting the aftermath, fearing that these visuals could incite greater public outcry and mobilize protests.

The situation escalated to a point where the Delhi Police felt compelled to intervene and dispel the rumors circulating on social media. On Tuesday morning, the police stated in a public announcement that “networks are fully operational,” attempting to reassure the public that the internet service was not intentionally disrupted. However, their assurance has done little to quell the skepticism among local residents and activists who continue to voice their frustrations regarding transparency in government actions.

This incident highlights a broader concern regarding freedom of information and the role of social media in contemporary India. While internet access is increasingly crucial for reporting and communication during emergencies, the possibility of its manipulation by authorities raises alarms regarding civil liberties. As investigations into the building collapse continue, the debate over internet freedom and governmental control is likely to persist, drawing attention from various sectors of society.

Source: scroll.in