4G curbs to stay at least till local body bypolls in Jammu and Kashmir

NEW DELHI: With Jammu and Kashmir planning to hold panchayat and municipal by-elections in October-November, the restoration of high-speed internet services in the valley has been deferred yet again. The decision was taken during a recent security review held by the state administration and officials from the Union home ministry, said people aware of the matter.

Conducting by-elections would be a challenge for the government amid increasing militant attacks on political workers and leaders.

As per official data, there are nearly 11,500 panch and 890 sarpanch seats vacant in Kashmir, while 185 panch and 124 sarpanch seats are vacant in Jammu division. “Internet restrictions may continue, except in two districts. The J&K administration will issue another order by October 21,” said a senior government official, who did not wish to be identified.


The Centre restored 2G services in J&K in January but did not allow 4G, triggering filing of petitions before the Supreme Court. Aspecial committee was set up on the directions of the court to examine the resumption of 4G internet.