Indias VPN Ban in Kashmir Raises Concerns Over Online Freedom

Indian Government Imposes Two-Month Ban on VPNs in Disputed Region

The Indian government has issued an order banning the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) for two months in Indian-administered Kashmir, citing “threats to national security” and alleged misuse. The ban is effective from December 29 and applies to all individuals residing in the region.

According to the government, the use of VPNs in Kashmir has the potential to be exploited for unlawful activities, including the dissemination of inflammatory material and misinformation that threatens public order. The ban also aims to prevent sensitive information from being exposed to potential cyber threats.

The ban has significant implications for IT professionals like Basit Banday, who relies on VPNs to handle sensitive healthcare data for his clients. Banday fears he may lose his job or be forced to relocate due to the ban.

Multiple videos have surfaced showing police officers in riot gear instructing pedestrians and vehicle drivers to stop and hand over their mobile devices. Those found violating the ban have been taken into custody, with security proceedings initiated against them.

The Indian government has imposed internet restrictions in Kashmir on multiple occasions, with an estimated 20% of India’s 800 million internet users using VPNs. The region accounts for nearly 50% of all internet shutdowns imposed by the government since 2012.

The ban is part of a broader security crackdown in the region, which has been ongoing since December 29.

Source: Al Jazeera