India Condemned for High Internal Displacements and Internet Shutdowns in 2023

Recent reports from the Geneva-based International Displacement Monitoring Centre and the online platform Access Now have criticized India for negative trends in internal displacement and internet shutdowns during 2023. Released on May 14 and 15, 2024, respectively, these reports highlight India’s concerning statistics in these areas.

The International Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) published its annual “2024 Global Report on Internal Displacement (GRID)” on May 14, 2024. The report reveals that conflict and violence triggered 69,000 displacements in South Asia in 2023. Of these, a majority 67,000, or 97%, occurred within India, primarily due to ethnic violence in Manipur.

The Manipur violence alone accounted for the vast majority of these displacements, underscoring a significant internal crisis. This statistic places India at the forefront of internal displacement issues in the region, drawing attention to the underlying socio-political instability and the urgent need for effective conflict resolution and humanitarian response strategies.

On May 15, 2024, Access Now published its report titled “Shrinking Democracy, Growing Violence: Internet Shutdowns in 2023.” This report pointed out that India had the highest number of internet shutdowns globally in 2023, a record it has held for six consecutive years. The frequent internet shutdowns reflect a broader trend of governmental control over digital communication, often justified by authorities as necessary for maintaining public order.

The reports from IDMC and Access Now paint a troubling picture of India’s current socio-political landscape. The high rate of internal displacement due to conflict and violence points to common issues within the country. The situation in Manipur is particularly alarming, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address the root causes of such conflicts.

Moreover, India’s status as the leader in internet shutdowns globally reflects a critical challenge to democratic governance. The repeated and prolonged shutdowns clue an overreliance on digital censorship as a tool for control. This approach undermines the democratic freedoms of the people.

The reports by the International Displacement Monitoring Centre and Access Now serve as a wake-up call for India to address its internal challenges. The high rates of displacement and frequent internet shutdowns are indicators of broader systemic issues that require comprehensive and humane policy responses. Addressing these problems is essential not only for the welfare of the affected populations but also for the health of India’s democracy and its international reputation.