Indian state of Gujarat has blocked mobile internet services to nearly 63 million people amid curfew in some areas of Ahmedabad and Surat succeeding violent protests led by the Patel community. The protests were against the arrest of the Patel community leader by the local police in Ahmedabad.

The convener of the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti, Hardik Patel led a rally demanding Other Backward Class (OBC) status for Patidar community to level the playing field in the competition at universities and government organizations for jobs.

On Tuesday, after Patel was detained, the 22-year-old politician sent out messages to citizens urging peace, through WhatsApp.  ‘I make an appeal to maintain peace and keep calm. I give a call for Gujarat bandh tomorrow (Wednesday). This decision has been taken by Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti considering widespread violence in the state.’

After the release of Mr. Hardik Patel from the custody, the police were slammed for brutal crackdown. Even several media persons were beaten up.

Also read: Patel community agitation turns violent in Ahmedabad

WhatsApp was extensively being used by Patel’s supporters to make media announcements and broadcast videos. A police officer was quoted by NDTV as saying that, “Last night, there were concerns of rumour-mongering and crowd mobilization through WhatsApp.” And hence the service will resume only after the situation comes under control, the officer added. Other reports signaled that all mobile internet services were blocked across the state.

 

-Sumana