Maintaining that restriction on the internet speed has reduced incidents of data service misuse by anti-social elements and OGWs without adversely impacting the COVID-19 control measures, education and business activities, the Department of Home, J&K Government, has ordered the continuance of 2G mobile data services only till July 29 in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. According to the order in this regard, issued by Principal Secretary, Home Department, Shaleen Kabra, restrictions on access to internet services as contained in earlier Government order, dated 17-06-2020, shall continue to remain in force till July 29, 2020, unless modified earlier. As per the earlier order, the Postpaid SIM card holders shall continue to be provided access to the 2G internet while these services shall not be made available on prepaid SIM cards, unless verified as per the norms applicable for postpaid connections. Fixed line internet connectivity shall continue to be made available with Mac-binding. “The restrictions on access to internet services in the above manner have been put in place to curb misuse of data for uploading/downloading/circulation of provocative content on the social media, prevent /reduce rumor mongers/fake news, counter attempts of recruiting gullible youth into terrorist ranks, curtail the use of encrypted messaging and VOIP services for infiltration and coordinating terror activities, and defeat the nefarious designs from across the border to propogate terrorism,” reads the orders while justifying the restrictions.
