The Assam government has suspended internet and mobile data services in the districts of Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong following a serious deterioration in the law and order situation, officials confirmed on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. The move comes amid rising tensions and incidents of violence reported from parts of the tribal council areas.
According to an official notification issued by Biswajit Pegu, Commissioner and Secretary to the Government of Assam, Home and Political Department, reports received from the District Magistrates of both Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong indicated a heightened risk to public peace and tranquility. The situation prompted the state government to invoke emergency provisions to prevent further escalation.
Internet Shutdown to Prevent Spread of Misinformation
The notification stated that the government apprehended the misuse of social media and internet services to spread inflammatory messages, rumours, and misinformation that could worsen the already volatile situation. In view of this, the suspension of mobile internet and data services of all telecom operators in the two districts has been enforced with immediate effect.
However, the government clarified that voice calls and broadband connectivity through fixed-line services would continue to function, ensuring essential communication remains available for residents and authorities.
“Any violation of this order will be punishable under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and relevant provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885,” the notification warned.
Legal Basis for the Suspension
The order has been issued under Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, read along with the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017. These provisions allow state governments to suspend telecom services in situations of public emergency or concerns related to public safety.
The internet shutdown will remain in force until further orders, with authorities reviewing the situation on a regular basis.
Violence and Security Deployment
The suspension follows fresh incidents of violence in parts of West Karbi Anglong, including Kheroni, where clashes reportedly broke out between two groups over eviction-related issues. At least two people were reportedly killed in the latest bout of violence in the tribal council area, raising alarm within the administration.
In response, additional security personnel have been deployed across sensitive and vulnerable locations to maintain law and order. Police and paramilitary forces have increased patrolling, while district administrations remain on high alert.
Government’s Appeal for Calm
State officials have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities as efforts continue to restore normalcy. The administration emphasized that the internet suspension is a temporary preventive step aimed solely at maintaining peace and preventing further violence.
Assam has witnessed several internet shutdowns in recent years during periods of unrest, elections, and communal tensions, as authorities increasingly rely on such measures to control the spread of misinformation during sensitive situations.
Situation Under Watch
Officials said the situation in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong is being closely monitored, and the internet services will be restored once the law and order situation improves. Further decisions will be taken based on ground assessments and security inputs
