Chandigarh: The Haryana government has decided to extend the suspension of mobile internet services in the Nuh and Palwal districts until August 8, as per an official order. The suspension of SMS services in these two districts will also remain in effect until 5 pm on August 7.
This measure comes in the wake of clashes that erupted in Nuh on July 31 during an attempt to stop a Vishva Hindu Parishad procession, which later spread to Gurugram and other districts, resulting in six deaths.
The order to extend the suspension was issued by Additional Chief Secretary (Home) T V S N Prasad on Saturday evening. The government had previously suspended mobile internet and SMS services and subsequently extended it until August 5.
The official order states, "This order is extended to prevent any disturbance of peace and public order in the jurisdiction of district Nuh and shall be in force up to 08.08.2023 (23:59 hrs)." It further emphasises that misuse of internet services through the spread of inflammatory material and false rumours on social media and messaging services could potentially disrupt public utilities, damage public assets, and disturb public law and order in Nuh.
A similar order has been extended for district Palwal, as stated by the Additional Director General of Police Mamata Singh.
She refuted the claims of sexual harassment of women stranded in Nalhar temple during the recent violence in Nuh, calling it a "rumor and false narrative." The ADGP herself was present on the spot and clarified that no such incident occurred. She also warned that strict action would be taken against those spreading such false information.
As the situation remains sensitive, the authorities are taking measures to ensure peace and stability in the affected regions. A total of 216 people have been arrested in connection with violence-related incidents in the state, with 83 being preventive arrests.
The clashes in Nuh have led to six deaths, including two police home guards, and injuries to 88 others.
The police are actively investigating the incidents and taking necessary actions to maintain law and order in the region. The Haryana DGP PK Agrawal has dismissed claims of any Pakistani connection to the incidents, stating that stringent action will be taken against those found guilty.