Internet and voice and internet telephony services have been suspended in Birbhum district of West Bengal. The ban has been imposed in five gram panchayat areas near Sinthia town. Officials say the step has been taken to prevent rumours and illegal activities. On Friday, March 14, the state Home Minister and Secretary for Hill Affairs issued an order and internet, including voice over internet telephony services, have been suspended till 8:00 am on March 17 (Monday).

The ban is in effect in Sinthia town, Hatora gram panchayat (GP), Mathpalsa GP, Harisara GP, Daryapur GP and Folwar GP areas. The order states that internet and voice over internet services in these areas can be used to spread rumours and promote illegal activities.

The department said that there was a fear of spreading rumors for illegal activities, hence the step had to be taken. According to the report, there was an incident of stone pelting in Birbhum, after which internet and call services were suspended. Strict security arrangements were made with the deployment of police in the area. The district administration has appealed to the people to maintain peace and not pay attention to rumors.

Officials say that the situation is being monitored continuously and services will be restored soon. Now all eyes will be on whether internet services will start as usual after March 17 or the ban can be extended.