Haryana Government Prolongs Mobile Internet Suspension Amid Farmers' Protest

The Haryana government extends the suspension of mobile internet services until February 15 amid ongoing farmers' protests demanding MSP laws and reforms. Telecom providers comply with the order covering seven districts. Tensions rise as farmers face police resistance while marching towards Delhi, presenting a list of 12 demands to the central government.

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The Haryana government has decided to extend the suspension of mobile internet services and bulk SMS in several districts until February 15 due to the ongoing farmers' protest. This move aims to maintain law and order amidst the escalating agitation. The affected districts include Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad, and Sirsa.

The decision comes as farmers continue their 'Delhi Chalo' march, demanding laws ensuring Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, farm loan waivers, and the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission recommendations. The government, under the leadership of additional chief secretary T V S N Prasad, has stated that the prevailing law and order situation in the mentioned districts remains critical and tense.

The extension of the suspension of mobile internet services is justified by the potential for disruption and damage caused by the spread of inflammatory material and false rumors. This measure, enacted under Section 5 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and Rule 2 of Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules 2017, aims to prevent any disturbance to public utilities and law enforcement efforts.

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Telecom service providers in Haryana have been instructed to comply with the order, ensuring the continued suspension of mobile internet services, bulk SMS (excluding banking and mobile recharge), and dongle services, except for voice calls. This directive underscores the government's commitment to maintaining peace and order in the face of ongoing protests.

Meanwhile, tensions have risen as farmers faced resistance from police forces while attempting to march towards Delhi. Tear gas was fired at protesters at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu Border, and barricades were erected in Kurukshetra to prevent their advancement. The farmers have presented a list of 12 demands to the central government, including MSP guarantees, debt waivers, and opposition to certain legislative amendments.

As the standoff continues, both sides remain steadfast in their positions, with the authorities striving to ensure public safety while addressing the grievances of the protesting farmers.