The Delhi High Court has agreed to urgently hear a petition challenging the suspension of internet services within a 1.5-kilometre radius of Jantar Mantar, where students have been staging protests demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in examinations.The petition was mentioned before a bench headed by Chief Justice D.K.Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia, which agreed to take up the matter later in the day after the petitioner's counsel sought an urgent hearing.The internet suspension was ordered by the government under the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024.

Authorities stated that the measure was necessary to safeguard public safety, prevent a public emergency, maintain law and order, and avoid the incitement of offences.Initially imposed from 4 pm until midnight on Thursday, the restriction was later extended until noon on Friday.The shutdown follows several days of escalating demonstrations in central Delhi.

Earlier in the week, large numbers of protesters marched towards Parliament, breached barricades and prompted enhanced security around the Parliament complex.Internet services were also suspended after clashes between demonstrators and security personnel.The protest movement gained momentum following activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike and his removal from Jantar Mantar.

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), formed after remarks made by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, organised the march to Parliament and has attracted significant support on social media.

Student participation has continued to increase despite heavy security arrangements, making the legality and proportionality of the internet suspension a key issue before the High Court.