Net Ban Extended at Jantar Mantar Amid CJP Protest

Union Home Ministry extends mobile internet suspension around Jantar Mantar until midnight as CJP demonstrations continue.

In response to escalating security concerns and public order escalations during ongoing demonstrations in New Delhi, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) extended the temporary suspension of mobile internet services until midnight on Thursday, July 23, 2026. Operating under the statutory powers of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 and the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024, the directive impacted a 1.5-kilometer radius around the Jantar Mantar protest site.

The regulatory move comes as members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and student organizations continue their extended agitation demanding systemic educational reforms and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over examination irregularities.

Regulatory Scope and Security Measures

According to official notifications issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs and signed by Under Secretary Mahendra Vikram Singh, the temporary digital blackout was deemed necessary in the interest of public safety and to prevent any potential incitement of offenses.

The restriction, enforced from 4:00 PM to 12:00 midnight, marks one of multiple localized communications curbs implemented by federal authorities in central Delhi. Concurrently, local commercial bodies, including the New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA), advised businesses and restaurants in nearby Connaught Place to close operations early as a precautionary measure following advisories from the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC).

Impact on Protesters, Commuters, and Businesses

The communications blackout and heightened security deployment have created operational challenges for everyday commuters, local businesses, and demonstrators gathered in central Delhi.

• Communication Gaps: Protesters and student coordinators reported difficulties maintaining contact, tracking missing group members, and verifying real-time logistical updates without mobile data.

• Commercial Disruptions: Early closures in Connaught Place commercial zones resulted in reduced evening foot traffic and economic slowdowns for retail and hospitality outlets.

• Transit and Safety: Heavy police barricading and restrictions around nearby metro stations forced commuters to seek alternate routes across the national capital.

Why It Matters

Balancing state security and public order management with digital rights remains a critical governance challenge. Communication curbs directly affect crowd coordination, emergency responses, and the free flow of information during large-scale civil demonstrations.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Action: Extension of mobile internet service suspension.

• Issuing Authority: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India.

• Effective Zone: 1.5-kilometer radius around Jantar Mantar, New Delhi.

• Duration: Imposed from 4:00 PM until midnight on Thursday, July 23, 2026.

• Underlying Cause: CJP-led protests demanding accountability and administrative changes regarding competitive examinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why were mobile internet services suspended around Jantar Mantar?

The Ministry of Home Affairs ordered the temporary internet blackout citing concerns over public safety, the maintenance of public order, and the prevention of offense incitement during protests.

What geographic area is covered by the internet ban?

The restriction applies strictly within a 1.5-kilometer radius surrounding the Jantar Mantar demonstration venue in central New Delhi.

Which legal provisions authorize this temporary telecommunications suspension?

The order was issued under the provisions of the Telecommunications Act, 2023, read alongside the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024.

Source: Ministry of Home Affairs, Delhi Police, The Economic Times, The Times of India