Mobile internet services snapped in Kashmir

Srinagar, Mar 12 : Mobile internet service of all cellular companies, including Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), was suspended for security reasons in Kashmir valley, where three militants were killed in a fierce encounter in the wee hours in Anantnag.

However, the broadband internet service of BSNL and point-to-point internet service were functioning normally though with decreased speed.

The services were suspended as precautionary measure in view of killing of three militants, including two locals -- Eesa Fazli, a resident of Srinagar and Syed Owais of Kokernag in Anantnag -- in an encounter with security forces in village Hakoora in Anantnag in the wee hours on Monday.

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.

When a consumer tried to access internet, this message pops up on the screen, “In compliance with the government instructions, the mobile internet data service has been blocked.”

Earlier in the day, authorities had asked all mobile operators to downgrade their high mobile internet speed -- 4G and 3G -- to 2G.

Authorities have in the past also snapped internet services in the valley numerous times after killing of militants in encounters or escalations in protests, citing security reasons.