Allow Cookies!
By using our website, you agree to the use of cookies
The Central government told the Supreme Court of India that high speed 4G internet services can be permitted in one district each of Jammu and Kashmir on a trial basis from August 15.
The matter was listed before the bench, comprising Justices N.V. Ramana, R. Subhash Reddy, and B.R. Gavai. The bench heard the contempt petition filed by Foundation of Media Professionals, to allow the immediate revival of 4G internet services in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
This petition was filed before the court to draw it’s attention to the wilful failure of government officials in obeying with the directions of the Top Court despite 29 days expired since the judgment was delivered.
Attorney General KK Venugopal argued before the court that a special committee held a third meeting on August 10 and consulted with local agencies in J&K. Various choices have been discovered keeping in mind the security in the border area.
The Attorney General further added that internet restrictions are not posing any barrier to COVID care, education, or business. In the present security scenario, the situation is not yet normal to restore high-speed internet access to mobile phones.
However, he further said that it can be slowly and carefully regulated. It can be restored in selected areas on a trial basis in one each district of Jammu and Kashmir.
He also made it clear that no 4G services will be restored in any area adjacent to the international border or LoC.
The bench observed it as a good stand while approving the center’s decision. Also hoping for the situations to improve so that the access can then be expanded.
Advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, counsel for the petitioner, said that the order in the review was not in the public domain. Whatever review was done or will be done, it must be available on the website.
The AG opposed the statement of Ahmadi that the original order was not in the public domain. To which Ahmadi replied that the order on review was not available on the website, hence it was not in the public domain. He also added that the review has to take place every 5 days which is also not happening. The Government should publish the order.
On July 28, the court had asked the Centre to verify if Jammu and Kashmir’s administration has sent any communication to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs for the restoring of 4G mobile internet services in the region.
86540
103860
630
114
59824