India records highest number of Internet shutdowns globally in 2023.

• According to Access Now, India has accounted for 773 (53%) shutdowns of the 1,458 shutdowns in globally since 2016.
• In 2023, the number of internet shutdowns rose by 41% from 201 in 2022 to 283 in 2023.
• This is the sixth straight year India has topped the list.
• Shutdowns reportedly cost the country about $1.9 billion and a loss of $118 million in foreign investment in the first half of 2023
• A total of 13 States and Union Territories imposed shutdowns in 2023, where seven of them disrupted Internet services five or more times.
• In 2023, 39 countries saw internet shutdowns.
• Myanmar followed India with 37 internet shutdowns followed by Iran with 34.
• Pakistan had 7 shutdowns while Iraq had 6.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) is an Indian digital rights organisation that advances liberty, equality, fraternity and social justice in the digital age.
• IFF has three verticals of work that include strategic litigation, policy engagement and civic literacy.
• Established on August 15, 2016 as a Charitable organization.