Kashmir: Mobile internet remains suspended, outgoing of pre-paid phones barred

Srinagar, May 28: Mobile internet services of all cellular companies, including Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), remained suspended for the second day today in Kashmir valley due to security reasons. Meanwhile, outgoing facility of pre-paid mobile phones was also suspended in the valley, where life has come to a grinding halt today due to restrictions and strike called by separatists against killing of eight militants, including Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) commander Sabzar Bhat yesterday.

The services were suspended as precautionary measure in view of the protests, triggered by killing of Sabzar, successor of Burhan Wani, in an encounter in South Kashmir. However, broadband internet services are still working in the valley though social media, including Facebook and WhatsApp, has again been barred. The social media services were restored from May 26 midnight after remaining suspended for a month in the Valley. Official sources said the authorities have asked all cellular companies to suspend mobile internet service in the Valley to prevent spread of any rumour on social media. However, suspension of the facility has led to more rumours, leading to more protests and clashes.

Last month mobile internet was suspended for two weeks in the valley in view of clashes between security personnel and students, triggered by security force raid at Pulwama Degree College on April 15.

The mobile internet services for post-paid connections was suspended for about five months last year following violence triggered by the death of HM commander Burhan Wani on July 8 last year. Similarly, mobile internet services for prepaid connections were restored in Kashmir on January 27, six months after they were suspended.

Meanwhile, the telecast of news on local cable channels in the Valley remained banned since 2010, when there were massive protests during which more than 120 people, mostly youths, were killed in security force and police firing in the Valley. The authorities had also directed bureaucrats and other officers not to participate in any political debate on local cable channels.