Haryana suspends Internet in Bhiwani, Charkhi Dadri amid protests over teacher Manisha’s death
PTC Web Desk: The Haryana Government has suspended mobile Internet services, bulk SMS (excluding banking and mobile recharge), and all dongle services in Bhiwani and Charkhi Dadri districts till 11 am on August 21, citing serious law and order concerns.
The order was issued by Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Sumita Misra following inputs from ADGP/CID Haryana and the Deputy Commissioners of both districts. The authorities feared that the circulation of inflammatory content, rumours, and misinformation on social media could escalate tensions, leading to agitation, violence, arson, and vandalism.
The move comes in the wake of widespread anger and protests over the murder of 19-year-old schoolteacher Manisha, whose body was discovered in a field near Singhani village in Bhiwani district on August 13. The police initially suspected suicide but later registered a murder case after it was found that her throat had been slit.
Since the incident, locals and social organisations have been staging protests, demanding justice for Manisha and strict punishment for the culprits. On Sunday, residents of Charkhi Dadri held a protest march, while earlier candle marches were organised in Berla, Kari, and other villages.
The victim’s family has also refused to perform her last rites until the accused are nabbed. A dharna (sit-in protest) continues at Dhigawa village, as the administration struggles to negotiate with the grieving family and agitated community members.
- With inputs from agencies
