Haryana orders 48-hour internet suspension
The Haryana government suspended mobile internet, bulk SMS, and dongle services in Bhiwani and Charkhi Dadri districts for 48 hours. The order followed widespread protests over the death of a 19-year-old teacher, Manisha. Voice calls remain operational, but mobile data services were blocked from 11 am on August 19 to 11 am on August 21.
The suspension order was issued by Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Sumita Misra after inputs from senior police officials. Authorities said the step was necessary to prevent unrest, spread of rumours, and mobilisation of crowds that could disrupt peace.
Officials added that social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and X could be misused to circulate inflammatory material. This, they said, might lead to violence, arson, or damage to property.
Death of teacher sparks outrage
Manisha, who was working as a teacher, went missing on August 11. Two days later, her body was discovered in a field in Bhiwani. Reports suggest she had gone to inquire about admission at a nursing college before she disappeared.
Her death triggered public anger, with people blocking major roads and staging protests. Opposition parties, including the Congress, demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe.
Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda accused the BJP-led state government of negligence, alleging that officials were attempting to dismiss the case as suicide. “The government and police have acted irresponsibly. It looks like an attempt is being made to cover up the truth,” Hooda said.
Suicide note changes investigation course
Investigators recovered a note near Manisha’s body. The bag containing the note also had her Aadhaar card and other documents. Police said the note suggested suicide, and insecticide traces were found in her viscera sample.
Bhiwani Superintendent of Police Sumit Kumar said, “There is proof of self-purchase of insecticide, presence of poison in the body, and a suicide note. All angles are being scientifically examined.”
IG Y. Poorn Kumar also confirmed that all procedures were followed, and a second post-mortem was conducted to rule out doubts.
Family alleges foul play
Despite police claims, Manisha’s family rejected the suicide theory. They allege she was murdered and that the case is being mishandled. Their demand for justice has found support among opposition leaders and protesters.
The controversy has deepened the political debate, with critics accusing the state of failing to ensure women’s safety. Public anger has remained high, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures like the internet ban.