Home Secretary Govind Mohan Apologises to Supreme Court Over Delhi Internet Shutdown

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court, tendering an unconditional apology in response to a contempt notice related to restrictions imposed in Delhi during a protest on October 10, 2026. However, he has defended the decision to suspend mobile internet services, arguing that the measure was necessary to maintain public order.

According to the affidavit, Delhi Police requested a temporary suspension of cellular internet services to prevent possible disturbances during the protest. Mohan said the request was examined under the law and considered proportionate to the situation.

Mobile Internet Suspended for 24 Hours

The affidavit states that cellular internet services were suspended from 10 pm on October 9 to 10 pm on October 10 within a four-kilometre radius of Raisina Hill in New Delhi.

Mohan clarified that the restriction applied only to mobile internet services. Wi-Fi, broadband and other non-cellular internet services were not covered by the shutdown, according to his submission.

He argued that a temporary suspension of internet services within a defined geographical area can be used to maintain public order, provided the measure follows the law and applicable safeguards. He also requested that the Supreme Court modify its October 11 order to permit such suspensions in necessary situations, subject to legal requirements.

Why Did the Supreme Court Issue a Contempt Notice?

The matter arose from restrictions imposed around a protest planned for October 10 by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The demonstration was called to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over allegations concerning electoral irregularities.

The Supreme Court had issued directions on October 9 concerning restrictions on Metro services and trains entering Delhi. On October 11, the court issued contempt notices to Govind Mohan, Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Chairperson D. Thara after petitioners alleged that its directions had been violated.

The proceedings concern alleged non-compliance with the court’s directions. The filing of an apology does not, by itself, establish that contempt has been proved.

Government Says There Was No Deliberate Violation

In his affidavit, Mohan maintained that there had been no wilful or deliberate disobedience of the Supreme Court’s directions. He defended the internet restriction as a limited and time-bound measure intended to prevent disruption and maintain peace in the national capital.

The case raises questions about how authorities should balance public order, the right to protest and access to communication services. The Supreme Court’s consideration of the affidavits will be important in determining how the authorities’ actions are assessed against its earlier directions.

The key issue is whether the restrictions were consistent with the Supreme Court’s orders and the legal safeguards governing internet shutdowns.

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