The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has temporarily suspended mobile internet services in select parts of Bhaderwah in Doda district until May 27, citing concerns over possible misuse by anti-national elements to disrupt public order.
According to an official statement, the decision was made following a recommendation by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti. The suspension affects 37 mobile towers — 19 operated by Reliance Jio and 18 by Airtel — and includes all mobile data services (2G/3G/4G/5G) as well as public Wi-Fi.
Principal Secretary of the Home Department, Chandraker Bharti, issued the order under Rule 3 of the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024. The suspension is in effect from 8 PM on May 22 to 8 PM on May 27.
The order states that mobile data could be used by anti-national elements or miscreants to incite unrest or threaten public safety. Online sources further report that a group of terrorists had been spotted in the Thanala, Sharkhi, and surrounding areas of Bhaderwah, allegedly making internet calls through mobile hotspots provided by locals.
Security forces have since launched extensive search operations in the upper reaches of Bhaderwah to trace and neutralize the threat. The shutdown is aimed at curtailing any communication that could aid such elements.
Authorities have reiterated that the move is crucial for safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of the nation and for maintaining law and order in the region.
