India to lift ban on Jammu and Kashmir's social media after seven months

Gulf Today Report

The Indian government on Wednesday announced the lifting of the internet blockade in the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) after seven months of internet gag.

J&K residents can now access social media websites on 2G services, a source said.

There is no mention of whitelisting of websites as per the new government order issued.

Kashmiris protest against the Indian government’s move in the valley. File/ AFP

The J&K government has extended the ban on high speed internet across the Union Territory till March 17.

An order in this regard was issued by the Principal Secretary J&K, Shaleen Kabra.

The order said the move is being taken in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the state and for maintaining public order.

A local source told Gulf Today, “I can’t yet access to the social media yet, the order hasn’t been implemented.”

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"About mobile data services, the internet speed shall be restricted to 2G only. While the postpaid Sim card holders shall continue to be provided access to the internet, these services shall not be made available on prepaid Sim cards unless verified as per the norms applicable for postpaid connections", the order said.

It further directs that the communication facilities provided by the government via internet kiosks apart from special arrangements for tourists, students, traders, shall continue.

The IGP Kashmir/Jammu shall ensure communication of these directions to the service providers forthwith and also ensure implementation of the direction with immediate effect.

The internet and mobile networks were suspended across J&K ahead of the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019.