SMS, prepaid calls, internet services restored in Jammu and Kashmir

All prepaid mobile connections and 2G mobile Internet service in parts were restored on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir, even as the authorities’ bid to provide limited access Internet has hit the ‘whitelist’ wall after poor Internet speed in four districts of Jammu makes sites inaccessible.

“Voice and short messaging service (SMS) facility on all local prepaid SIM cards across J&K shall be restored on Saturday. 2G mobile data services on the post-paid mobiles for accessing whitelisted sites shall be allowed in all 10 districts of Jammu division, besides Kupwara and Bandipora districts of the Kashmir Valley,” Principal Secretary, Planning, and J&K government spokesman, Rohit Kansal, said in Jammu.

The Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) would initiate the process for verification of credentials of prepaid subscribers “as per the norms applicable for post-paid connections,” he said. However, Internet will remain suspended in Srinagar and seven other districts of the Valley.

Mr. Kansal said the information technology (IT) companies would also be provided with fixed line Net connectivity with the precautions directed by the Home department.

According to a department order issued on Friday, there have been a number of reports on the use of Internet in cross-border terrorism, incitement, rumour-mongering, etc. and also misuse of the prepaid connections by anti-national elements.