Iran blocks internet & social media access amid crackdown on anti-hijab protestors

Amid protests over death of a woman in police custody, Iran has disrupted internet and blocked access to social networking platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp in parts of Tehran and Kurdistan,  Guardian reported. decision has been taken in an attempt to curb protests as people have been using social media to showcase opposition. protests started on 16 September after a 22-year-old Kurdish woman named Mahsa Amini died in police custody. 

According to Internet Observatory NetBlocks, mobile networks in Iran, including MCI and Rightel, have been "largely shut down" and regional disruptions have been witnessed during protests. It furr ted that use of Instagram and WhatsApp has been restricted. Protesters have torched police stations and vehicles in several cities of Iran as unrest triggered by death of a woman continued for sixth day. Protests have spre to 15 cities and police have been using teargas and arresting people to disperse crowds, Guardian reported citing Iranian state media.  decision regarding internet restrictions comes as protesters have been using internet to showcase demonstrations and videos of women burning ir hijabs have been widely circulated online. Some women have also shared videos with hashtag Mahsa_Amini which showed m chopping ir hair to protest against death of a 22-year-old Kurdish woman in custody.

Woman detained for allegedly wearing Islamic hescarf too loosely

Witnesses in Iran, who spoke on condition of anymity, told  Associated Press that y could longer be able to use internet on mobile devices. Earlier on Wednesday, Iran’s Telecommunications Minister Isa Zarepour anunced that certain restrictions might be imposed “due to security issues,” AP reported citing state media. Protests have been taking place in Iran after death of Mahsa Amini, who was detained on 16 September for allegedly wearing Islamic hescarf too loosely. Activists have claimed that woman suffered a fatal blow to he. However, police have denied claims and said that woman died of a heart attack. Mahsa Amini's family has claimed that woman faced  heart issues previously and that y were prevented from seeing her body. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has showcased support for Iranian women who have been protesting for ir rights. In his dress at United Nations General Assembly, Biden said, "We stand with brave citizens and brave women of Iran who right w are demonstrating to secure ir basic rights."

Inputs from AP

Im: AP/Unsplash