Haryana Extends Ban on Internet Services Amid Farmers' Protest And Internet Restrictions

The ongoing farmers' protest in India has led to the imposition of internet restrictions in several districts of Haryana, including Ambala, Hisar, and Sirsa. These restrictions have been extended by the Haryana government due to the continuation of the protests, indicating a significant impact on communication and information access for residents in the affected areas.

Extension of Internet Ban in Haryana

The Haryana government has announced an extension of the ban on internet services in multiple districts, including Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad, Sirsa, and Dabwali. This extension is scheduled to remain in effect until midnight on February 15, further prolonging the disruption to internet connectivity in these regions.

Reasons Behind Internet Suspension

The decision to extend the ban on internet services is primarily attributed to the persistent farmers' protests in the state. Farmer unions have reiterated their commitment to continue the agitation until their demands are met, prompting authorities to maintain restrictions on communication channels to manage the situation.

Key Demands of the Farmers' Protest

The farmers participating in the protests have outlined a series of demands aimed at addressing various grievances related to agricultural policies and socio-economic issues. Some of the key demands include:

1. MSP Guarantee and Debt Waiver: Farmers are demanding a minimum support price (MSP) guarantee for 23 crops and the waiver of their debts, emphasizing the need for financial security and stability in the agricultural sector.

2. Withdrawal of Cases: The protesters seek the withdrawal of cases registered against them during the 2020-21 farmers' agitation, highlighting concerns regarding legal repercussions faced by activists and demonstrators.

3. Opposition to Legislation: Farmer unions are advocating for the repeal of the Electricity Amendment Bill 2020 and the reintroduction of the Land Acquisition Act of 2013, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding farmers' rights and interests.

4. Justice for Victims: The protesters demand justice for the victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri killings and seek punitive measures against those responsible for the tragic incident, underscoring the importance of accountability and transparency in law enforcement.

5. Employment and Compensation: Farmers are calling for the provision of 200 days of employment per year and a daily wage of Rs 700 under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MGNREGA), with a focus on linking employment opportunities with farming activities. Additionally, they seek compensation for the families of farmers who lost their lives during the protests, along with job opportunities for affected family members.

Conclusion: Impact and Way Forward

The extension of the ban on internet services in Haryana reflects the ongoing challenges posed by the farmers' protest and underscores the need for effective dialogue and resolution of grievances. As the protests persist and demands remain unaddressed, authorities must engage in constructive negotiations with farmer representatives to reach a mutually beneficial outcome. Meanwhile, the continuation of internet restrictions highlights the broader implications of socio-political movements on digital rights and communication freedoms in the digital age.