Why Did Authorities Suspend Mobile Internet in Kishtwar, J&K?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Jammu, Jan 30 (NationPress) As a precautionary security measure, the authorities announced the suspension of mobile Internet services in certain regions of Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, on Friday.
An official statement revealed that the Home Department of the union territory has mandated the temporary halt of mobile data services, including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G, in specified areas to ensure safety.
The suspension affects the regions of Singhpora, Chingam, and Chatroo from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on January 30, aiming to thwart potential misuse by anti-national factions.
This directive was issued by Chandraker Bharti, the Principal Secretary of the Home Department, following guidance from the Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, who holds authority under the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024.
The suspension encompasses a radius of six kilometers around each designated location.
Officials have expressed concerns that high-speed mobile data services could be exploited by wrongdoers, thereby compromising public order and security in the union territory.
The Home Department emphasized that this decision is pivotal to maintaining the sovereignty and integrity of India, ensuring the security of Jammu and Kashmir, and preserving public order.
This suspension has been validated under the relevant regulations of the Telecommunication Act, 2023, and the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Service Rules, 2024.
Historically, mobile Internet services have been suspended in Jammu and Kashmir to prevent misuse by terrorists and anti-social elements.
Recently, joint security forces, acting on specific intelligence, cordoned off Singhpora village in Kishtwar. During the resulting search operation, hiding terrorists opened fire on the security personnel, resulting in the death of one paratrooper and injuries to seven others.