Exploring Possible Solutions to Curb Internet Shutdowns in India

Abstract

Through this issue brief, I begin to look at an introductory policy framework to curb Internet Shutdowns in India - the world's largest democracy which ironically, imposes the highest number of such communication blackouts. The goal is to rid the policy framework off of arbitrary, blanket shutdowns - however given capability and capacity constraints, a gradual approach will have to be taken. Solutions offered are under five heads namely, Curbing Misinformation, Legal Reforms, Transparency, Capacity Building and using a Risk-based approach for imposing shutdowns in extreme cases.

Keywords: internet, internet shutdowns, misinformation, technology policy, India, Kashmir, capacity building, fake news, intermediary liability, social media

JEL Classification: Z18