Youth surfing internet in Srinagar after govt restored 2G internet. (File image: PTI)
The government said it would restore high-speed internet access on a trial basis in limited areas to assess the impact, and a review of the security situation will be done after two months.
- CNN-News18
- Last Updated: August 11, 2020, 11:15 AM IST
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The Central government has agreed to restore 4G Internet in one district each in Jammu and Kashmir division on a trial basis, more than a year after the high-speed internet was suspended on August 5 last year.
Attorney General KK Venugopal informed the Supreme Court on Tuesday that the special committee formed to review the situation has decided to provide the access to high-speed internet in limited and specific areas from August 16.
“Districts, where it can be provided and also the areas, will be identified and then 4G Internet will be given. We, however, make it clear that there will not be high speed internet in border areas. Further, this will be given only after assessing the security situations,” Venugopal said before a bench headed by Justice NV Ramana.
The submission came as Centre responded to a contempt petition, citing lack of transparency in keeping the 4G access blocked and no application of mind.
On the last occasion, the bench had asked the Centre to consider providing high-speed internet in specified areas for limited purposes. The bench had frowned upon the delay on part of the Jammu and Kashmir administration and the Centre in taking a coordinated and considered stand.
Replying, the top law officer cited the decision taken by the special committee, which was also formed on a direction of the Supreme Court in an earlier round of litigation.
Reading out from the affidavit, AG, however, also maintained that the threat perception continues to remain high in J&K.
“4G restrictions don’t hamper medical assistance, education and businesses. (The) security scenario is such that 4G can’t be restored in all areas,” added Venugopal.
Source: News18