The Taliban has cut off internet services in the whole of Afghanistan, leaving millions out of touch with the outside world. Telecoms firms were given explicit orders to stop mobile data and internet access, and they acted immediately to avoid punishment.
The massive blackout seriously affected people’s daily lives. Students could not keep up with their online courses, traders were unable to close a deal on digital exchanges and families had no way of keeping in touch with relatives living abroad. Hospitals reported chaotic emergency services, while the media organisers who spoke about blackout complained that breaking news had been silenced.
Taliban officials claimed it shut down the internet to forestall the spread of “anti-state propaganda.” They argued that social media platforms spread content that affects their control. However, human rights groups condemned this move and said that what the Taliban want now is to suppress voices criticising their rule.
