J&K administration extends 2G mobile data service till Feb 24

Home department of J-K administration has issued an order to extend the 2G mobile data service and fixed line internet connectivity wherever provided across the union territory till February 24. 

However, the internet service providers (ISP) have been given directions to ensure access to 1,485 white listed websites only and not to any social media applications or any peer to peer communication including virtual private network (VPN) applications. The directions shall be effective from February 16 and remain in force till February 24, unless modified earlier. The 2G internet facility on mobile phones was restored in Jammu and Kashmir on January 25 after remaining suspended since August 5 last year after abrogation of Article 370 provisions and bifurcation of the erstwhile state into union territories of Jammu and



Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Reports have been received from the intelligence and law enforcement agencies bringing out the manner in which social media sites are being accessed through the virtual private network (VPN) applications, for coordinating terror activities as well as to upload provocative material aimed at disturbing the public order. The order reads, access or communication facilities made available by the government by way of e-terminals or internet kiosks apart from special arrangements for tourists, students and traders would continue. 

The inspector generals of police, Kashmir and Jammu, would ensure communication of these directions to the service providers forthwith and ensure implementation of the directions with immediate effect.