Internet services have been fully restored in the Chomu area of Jaipur, Rajasthan, after a suspension that lasted approximately 48 hours. The decision to lift the ban came after local authorities confirmed that the situation in the region had normalised, with no further threats to public order.
Background and Reason for the Shutdown
The suspension of mobile internet and SMS services was initially imposed on the evening of December 26, 2025. The District Magistrate of Jaipur issued the order under the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017. This decisive action was taken as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of misinformation and to maintain public safety and tranquillity. The authorities were concerned about the potential for disruptive elements to misuse digital platforms to orchestrate unlawful gatherings or incite violence, which could have disturbed the peace in the area.
The official order explicitly cited the need to curb the spread of inflammatory content and false news through social media platforms and messaging services. Such content was seen as a direct threat to public order, potentially leading to mob mobilisation and violence. The suspension applied to all mobile data networks, including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G, as well as bulk SMS services for all subscribers in the specified jurisdiction of Chomu.
The Restoration Process and Official Confirmation
After closely monitoring the ground situation for two days, the district administration determined that stability had returned. The restoration order was issued on the evening of December 28, 2025, effectively ending the 48-hour digital blackout. Telecom operators and internet service providers were promptly directed to resume services.
A senior police official stated that the situation was under firm control and that there was no longer any imminent threat to public safety that warranted the continued suspension of internet services. The restoration was welcomed by residents and business owners in Chomu, who had faced significant inconvenience due to the disruption in digital communication and online transactions.
Impact and Broader Context
The temporary internet shutdown in Chomu highlights the continued use of this measure by Indian authorities as a tool for maintaining law and order in sensitive situations. While effective from a security standpoint, such suspensions have a wide-ranging impact on daily life, affecting everything from education and business operations to access to essential services and information.
This incident in Rajasthan follows a familiar pattern seen in various Indian states, where local administrations temporarily suspend internet services to preempt or control unrest. The legal framework allows for such suspensions, but they are typically reviewed regularly to ensure they are not extended beyond what is absolutely necessary. The swift restoration in Chomu indicates that the perceived emergency was short-lived and effectively managed by the law enforcement agencies on the ground.
The episode serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between ensuring public safety and preserving the digital rights and economic continuity of citizens. Authorities have reiterated that such measures are always temporary and lifted at the earliest possible moment once normalcy is assured.
