India recorded 65 internet shutdowns in 2025, marking the lowest number in recent years yet the country continues to face serious criticism over digital restrictions. A new report by Access Now highlights that while the number has dropped compared to previous years, it still remains “alarmingly high for a democracy.” The findings have once again raised concerns about internet freedom, digital rights, and government control in India.
The report, titled “Rising Repression Meets Global Resistance: Internet Shutdowns in 2025,” reveals that 313 internet shutdowns were recorded worldwide across 52 countries the highest ever documented. Although India is no longer the top country for shutdowns, it still holds the highest total number globally since tracking began in 2016. Out of 2,102 shutdowns recorded worldwide, a staggering 920 occurred in India alone.
Over the past decade, internet shutdowns in India have followed a fluctuating but consistently high trend. From just 30 shutdowns in 2016, the number sharply increased to 134 in 2018, before gradually declining in recent years. In 2025, the figure dropped to 65, showing some improvement but still raising serious questions about freedom of access.
According to the report, these shutdowns affected at least 12 states and territories across India. Most disruptions were imposed during protests, communal tensions, conflicts, and even religious events. Authorities often justify these shutdowns as necessary for maintaining law and order, but critics argue that they restrict free expression and access to information.
Globally, the situation appears even more concerning. Not a single day in 2025 passed without at least one internet shutdown somewhere in the world. The Asia-Pacific region recorded the highest number, with 195 shutdowns across 11 countries. Myanmar topped the list with 95 shutdowns, surpassing India for the second consecutive year.
Experts warn that frequent internet blackouts can have serious consequences, including economic losses, disruption of communication, and harm to civil liberties. The continued use of shutdowns highlights the growing tension between security measures and digital freedom.
As the debate continues, the report calls for greater transparency and accountability from governments to protect internet access as a basic human right.