Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have taken serious note of the misuse of internet services in the Union Territory ahead of Republic Day 2026.
The summer capital, Srinagar, has become the latest district where authorities have imposed a two-month-long ban on all Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).
The move was taken to prevent cyber fraud, ensure public safety, and maintain law and order in the region. In addition, a ban has already been imposed in North Kashmir’s Kupwara district and South Kashmir’s Kulgam and Anantnag.
A similar ban is in effect in several districts of the Jammu division, such as Rajouri, Poonch, Doda, and Kathua, where district administrations have cited the misuse of these applications by terror networks.
The order stated, “In the interest of public safety, maintenance of law and order, and protection of sensitive information from potential cyber exploitation, it has become imperative to take immediate preventive measures.”
The order was issued by Srinagar District Magistrate Akshay Labroo, who said the decision had been taken under Section 163 of the Bharatiya NagarikSuraksha Sanhita (BNSS), following a report submitted by the Senior Superintendent of Police, Srinagar.
According to the order, J&K police have expressed concerns over the possible misuse of these VPN applications by terror networks and anti-national forces.
The concerns stem from the fact that these VPN applications allow users to send and transmit encrypted data between users, posing significant challenges for security forces in detecting anti-national and terror elements.
Also Read: Cold wave intensifies in Valley; flights suspended at Leh Airport
Follow us
