Fifth internet shutdown: Mobile services suspended near Jantar Mantar till midnight

New Delhi: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has extended the suspension of mobile internet services in a 1.5-km radius of Jantar Mantar until midnight on Thursday, as the CJP continues its protest demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak.

The latest order was issued with the approval of the Union Home Secretary under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024.

According to the ministry, the suspension has been imposed in the interest of "public safety" and to avert a "public emergency".

This is the fifth order issued by the Home Ministry since 17 July, extending the suspension of mobile internet services in the area around the protest site.

The CJP-led agitation began on 20 June, with protesters demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, reforms to the education system, and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.