India, July 21 -- The temporary suspension of mobile internet services in parts of central Delhi during the 'Chalo Sansad' protest has sparked criticism from digital rights organisations, which argue that internet shutdowns should not become a routine measure for managing peaceful public demonstrations.

The shutdown coincided with the protest organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which called for the resignation of the Union Education Minister over alleged irregularities in the conduct of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). Authorities had imposed extensive security arrangements, including traffic restrictions and the closure of several Metro stations, as thousands of protesters gathered near Jantar Mantar and att...