Haryana Government Suspends Mobile Internet and SMS Services Ahead of Religious Procession in Nuh District
In an effort to maintain law and order and prevent any potential disturbances, the Haryana government has decided to suspend mobile internet and bulk SMS services in the Nuh district until August 28. This decision comes after authorities denied permission for a religious procession, following communal violence during a previous event.
During a meeting chaired by Director-General of Police Shatrujeet Kapur, senior officers from bordering states, including Punjab, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and the Union territory of Chandigarh, discussed the need for a coordinated effort to effectively deal with the situation. The denial of permission for the yatra was primarily based on the upcoming G-20 sherpa group meeting scheduled to take place in Nuh from September 3 to 7.
The suspension of mobile internet from August 26 to 28 aims to prevent the spread of rumors through social media platforms, which could potentially cause unrest during the planned rally on Monday. Additionally, the district administration has imposed Section 144 of the CrPC, forbidding the assembly of four or more people in an area, as a precautionary measure.
To further ensure public safety, the carrying of weapons such as licensed firearms, lathis, and axes will also be prohibited during this period. Although permission for the yatra has been denied, there are reports indicating that certain organizations have invited individuals from Haryana and neighboring states to participate in the event on August 28.
The Haryana police have made all necessary arrangements to maintain law and order during the proposed yatra and have deployed personnel accordingly. As a preventive measure, mobile internet services have been temporarily suspended in Nuh.
Director-General Kapur emphasized the importance of sharing intelligence and monitoring social media platforms to effectively address any potential threats. He urged senior police officials from bordering states to promptly report any incidents that could disrupt communal harmony so that appropriate action can be taken in a timely manner.
In light of the situation, Mamta Singh, the Additional Director-General of Police (law and order), has been appointed as the nodal officer and will be stationed in Nuh.
The decision to suspend mobile internet services is aimed at preventing the disturbance of peace, public order, and the potential spread of rumors and inflammatory content. The order also includes the suspension of bulk SMS services (excluding banking and mobile recharge) as well as all dongle services on mobile networks, except for voice calls.
With the aim of maintaining public safety and preventing any untoward incidents, the Haryana government is taking proactive measures to control the situation in Nuh. The suspension of mobile internet services, along with other precautionary measures, will help ensure a peaceful environment during this critical period.
