Image source: thehindu.com
The Jammu and Kashmir government has extended ban on high –speed data service till November 26 in the valley. The order came in the wake of apprehensions about the misuse of high-speed Internet to disrupt the district development council and panchayat polls. Making a few exceptions to this order the order, Home Department Principal Secretary Shaleen Kabra stated that high-speed data services will continue in Ganderbal and Udhampur districts.
The government order said, "During the last fortnight, there have also been targeted killing of the civilians/political activists, that manifest the nefarious design of the terrorists to dissuade general public from participating in the election process. Such unlawful acts heavily rely upon high speed mobile internet internet connectivity and are required to be thwarted by taking appropriate pre-emptive measures to create an environment of safety and security for the contesting candidates and the general public.”
The order also states that postpaid sim cardholders shall continue to be provided access to the internet. However, these services shall not be made available on pre-paid cards unless verified as per the norms applicable for post-paid connections.