Govt Confirms Internet Shutting Order In 2 South Kashmir Districts, Reducing Speed In Gbl On Poll Day

Srinagar, Nov 29 The government has confirmed an order by the authorized officer, shutting the 2G internet in Pulwama and Shopian district as well as reducing the speed in central Gnaderbal district on November 28 when first phase of the DDC polls got started in J&K. The Ganderbal along with Udhampur are only two districts in J&K where the government has allowed high-speed internet since mid-August this year and elsewhere the internet speed continues to be 2G.
“The IGP, Kashmir Zone, being the authorized officer under the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017, has issued directions to the Telecom Service Providers {TSPs)/Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to suspend 2G mobile data services in District Pulwama and Shopian, and restrict the availability of mobile data services in District Ganderhal to 2G speed, w.e.f 0600 1 Irs. to 1800 Mrs. on 28.11.2020,” reads an order issued by the Principal Secretary to the Government Home Department Shaleen Kabra.
“The order under reference inter-alia mentions about the misuse of data services by the anti-national elements/OGWs to disrupt the polling process of the District Development Council (DDC) elections scheduled in different parts of the Kashmir Valley w.e.f 28-11-2020. It is further mentioned that fallacious material through social media had already started circulating, urging the public not to participate in the ongoing election process,” reads the order, adding, “Now, therefore, upon consideration of the various aspects, as brought out in the material provided by the Authorized Officer. I, Principal Secretary to the Government. Home Department, being satisfied dial there was absolute necessity of issuance of the aforesaid directions by the Authorized Officer, without obtaining prior approval of the Competent Authority, in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State and for maintaining public order, hereby confirm (the) order.”