Sterlite protest: TN government orders suspension of internet services in 3 districts

The State government on Wednesday ordered suspension of internet services in Thoothukudi and adjoining districts of Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari for five days to prevent spread of rumours through social media and help bring public tranquility. Blaming provocative messages spread through social media, the government in an order said such messages led to a massive gathering of about 20,000 people on Tuesday against Sterlite’s copper plant which subsequently resulted in violence and police action. Noting that anti-social elements were trying to exploit the situation, the government directed nodal officers of Internet Service Providers in these three districts to suspend internet services till May 27 effective from Wednesday. Orders were passed under Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017.