Govt Can Switch Off Your Net

Provision under Info Tech Act gives Centre or any of its officers power to block internet if necessary

The Indian government has armed itself with powers to `switch off ' or kill the internet during times of national emergencies, becoming one of the first few countries to assume such farreaching authority. 

Even as the US and other western nations debate the judiciousness of giving the governments complete control to shut down cyber traffic, India has moved a step ahead and incorporated a provision under the IT Act of 2008, giving the Central government, or any of its officers specially authorised by it, to block the internet if necessary. The shutdown can happen in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, its defense, security of its states, friendly relations with foreign states or for public order. Failure to comply will result in imprisonment of up to seven years. 

The implications of this move are immense as it gives the government overriding powers over a fast-growing and widely used resource, and one that is becoming increasingly crucial in conducting commerce and social interaction. The country has about 70 million internet users - a figure growing at about 25% every year. 

with thanks :  Economic Times : link above for detailed news.