Guwahati 24 December 2025 – The Assam government took a decisive step on the 23rd day of December 2025, when it ordered the immediate discontinuance of internet and mobile data services in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts. This was in response to a rapidly deteriorating law-and-order situation, which has already claimed the lives of two people as violence has erupted in new outbreaks.
Authorities have imposed a blackout to stop spreading inflammatory messages as well as rumors and misinformation via websites on social media. Although voice calls and fixed-line broadband connections are in place and in compliance with the rules carries severe penalties in accordance with Section 223 in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Act, 2023, and the relevant regulations of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.
Instigated by the death of a victim within Tribal Council Areas
The decision was made following reports of violent unrest across these two areas, especially in areas that are part of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council. Two people were killed in the latest violence, intensifying tensions that have been simmering for several days. District Magistrates from Karbi Anglong as well as West Karbi Anglong submitted urgent reports to the State Government on December 23 and highlighted the serious threat to the peace of the public.
Protests turned violent as demonstrators fought security forces. The government expressed its deep concern that internet access without a check could worsen the situation. The government identified social media as the major source of spreading provocative content that could lead to additional violations of peace.
Biswajit Pegu, the Commissioner and Secretary of the state of Assam’s Home and Political Department, issued the official notification. He made reference to the provisions of Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 as well as the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services (Public Security or Emergency) Rules 2017. The order requires every mobile provider to instantly stop the internet and mobile data service in the affected areas till further notice.
Official Notification Highlights the Serious concerns
The letter, which was made by Pegu, is an edgy image of the situation. The information received from District Magistrates depicted a scene of chaos that was growing. A “serious law-and-order situation” was said to have occurred abruptly on the 23rd of December 2025, which prompted concerns of widespread disorder.
Concerns were raised over the potential for misuse that digital media platforms could be used for. The government was concerned that the internet and social media services could be used to broadcast inflammatory messages or false information. These kinds of content, according to officials, could further escalate the already tense situation, resulting in more violence and the loss of lives.
To ensure the peace of the public in the interest of ensuring public peace, the suspension was put in place immediately. Service providers who use mobile phones were told to comply as soon as possible. The goal of the measure is to establish an encryption firewall to prevent the real-time coordination of illicit activities but allows essential communication via voice in the event of an emergency.
Legal Framework and penalties for violations
The court order has a substantial legal weight. Any violations are punished by strict laws that are designed to ensure the safety of all citizens. The section 223 in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, deals with refusal to obey public servant orders which carries penalties, including jail time and fines.
Additional provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 give the government more power in the event of a public emergency. The Temporary Suspension Rules for 2017 provide the procedure guidelines for temporary blackouts. These rules were designed to meet security requirements while ensuring minimum interruption to services essential to the public.
Fixed broadband and voice telephony are specifically excluded. Residents are still able to make urgent calls, call authorities, and connect to the internet on landlines. This option guarantees that banking, healthcare as well as other crucial sectors are still functioning despite the limitations.
The context of ongoing tribal unrest in Assam
The suspension of internet service comes in the midst of prolonged territorial and ethnic tensions that have been raging in the Assam hill districts. Karbi Anglong as well as West Karbi Anglong, both with autonomous councils, have been the scene of frequent disputes over the rights to land, resource allocation and representation in the political arena. Recently, protests have focused on the need for more autonomy and the implementation of council’s recommendations.
The violence erupted after demonstrations became violent. Guards were stationed to control protesters, however the clashes ended in deaths. Two deaths were reported during the most recent incident and several were wounded. In hospitals, Diphu and the surrounding areas were treating stone-pelting victims and lathi-related charges.
Local leaders of Karbi have called for calm. The Karbi group have called for peace as they voice their complaints. Autonomous councils created in the sixth Schedule in the Constitution control local affairs however, they often face central state coordination issues. The latest violence highlights the fragility of harmony between ethnic groups throughout Northeast India.
The Government’s broader Strategy to Restore Order
Beyond the blackout on internet access, Assam authorities have activated Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) which was previously CrPC 144. This order prohibits illegal gatherings of five or more people located in West Karbi Anglong, aiming to stop mob violence.
The presence of police has dramatically increased. Additional forces from the neighboring districts have been enlisted. Checkpoints are located along major roads that lead to the troubled areas. Monitoring has been intensified to ensure compliance with restrictions.
The Home Department emphasized that these measures are only temporary. Services will resume when the situation improves. Monitoring by the district administrations will decide the length of the suspension.
The impact of Daily Life and Local Economy
The sudden cutoff in internet connectivity has disrupted the normalcy of two districts. Students who are preparing for exams find themselves unable to access internet-based sources. Businesses that rely on digital payments have to overcome operational challenges. Services that rely on mobile data, such as ride-hailing or food delivery have come to an end.
The schools are closed for the time being as a precaution. Markets in Diphu, the capital of Karbi Anglong reports a drop in traffic. Farmers struggle to obtain the latest market prices for their products. Healthcare facilities continue to function, however they face difficulties with the telemedicine of consultations.
Voice connectivity can provide some relief. Fixed-line subscribers, although less numerous, still have vital connections. Local leaders encourage residents to use the radio and television channels for updates from the official sources.
Historical Background to the Internet Suspensions in India
Assam is not a stranger to these measures. The state has issued numerous blackouts of the internet in the context of ethnic conflict or student protests, as well as bandh-related violence. Similar suspensions were imposed in the year 2019 during protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act protests and in 2021, amid border dispute with Mizoram.
On the national level, India leads the world in shutting downs of the internet. As per access now, the country had 116 shutdowns by 2024 on its own. The opposition says these laws impede free speech and impede economic growth. The majority of supporters believe they are necessary to deter violent conflict in unstable regions.
The Supreme Court has issued guidelines to make sure that the use of these powers. Shutdowns have to be time-bound, geographically restricted and subject to legal review. Assam officials claim to be in compliance with these guidelines.
National and Regional Reactions
Political parties have expressed their opinions on the latest developments. Leaders from the opposition want dialogue with tribal leaders. The government BJP defends the actions of the government as proactive police work. Civil society groups demand the restoration of services and root-cause resolution.
The national media has focused on the agitation. Northeast Watchdog organizations are monitoring the human rights implications. International observers observe India’s complex federal dynamics when it comes to managing the diversity of its ethnic population.
The Path Forward: To Resolution and Restore
The sun sets on the 24th of December the two districts are still under lockdown by digital technology. Security checks continue 24/7. District Magistrates are in constant contact with the state headquarters. Any indication of escalation could cause the restoration of a portion of the district.
Community leaders play a crucial role. Elders and influential people advocate for the retention of the young. Peace committees from districts have been established. Negotiation tables are being crafted for talks that will be substantive.
The Assam government reiterates its commitment to the constitutional autonomy of hill tribes. The long-term solution is better use of funds for infrastructure as well as the creation of jobs within council regions. Digital restrictions, however brutal, can be used to buy time for more mature minds to win.
This episode focuses on Northeast Indian’s constant challenge of the balance between development goals and sensitive ethnicity. While Karbi Anglong as well as West Karbi Anglong navigate this crisis, the focus is at Dispur to ensure that they have a balanced and inclusive governance.
