On the continued restrictions on the internet speed in Jammu and Kashmir (J-K), the President of People’s Conference, a regional unionist political party, Sajad Lone said that the 4G-internet ban has no security ramifications but “academic ramifications”.
“4G ban has no security ramifications. Social networking sites [are] up and running. 4G ban has academic ramifications,” he said. “It is pure academic persecution. Nothing else. In their words, ‘let us teach them a lesson’ bravo!!! Now u will fight teenagers aspiring for academic excellence.”
Mr. Lone was reacting to the UN high commissioner for human rights Michele Bachelet’s comments at the start of the 45th session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Ms. Bachelet welcomed the release of some political leaders and limited internet restoration in two Kashmir districts but expressed concern that many still remained behind bars and called for the full reversal of the communication blockade in J-K, reported The Wire.
In August 2019, New Delhi had revoked J-K’s special status and clamped down on the valley, snapping all means of communications and detaining all prominent unionists. However, the curbs were gradually eased, the restriction on high-speed internet continues – except two districts of J-K.
