Srinagar, May 23: The Jammu and Kashmir government has ordered the temporary suspension of mobile internet services in Bhaderwah area of Doda district amid concerns that data services could be misused by anti-national elements to disturb public order.
According to an official order issued by Principal Secretary (Home) Chandraker Bharti, the suspension affects 74 mobile towers—56 operated by Reliance Jio and 18 by Airtel—and will remain in force from 8 PM on May 22 to 8 PM on May 27.
The action was initiated following a recommendation by Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, who cited security risks in the region.
“Whereas the IGP, Jammu Zone, being the authorised officer under sub-rule (1) of Rule 3 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024, has directed telecom and internet service providers to suspend mobile data services temporarily in Bhaderwah area of Doda district,” states Government Order No. Home-12 (TSTS) of 2025, dated May 23.
The order emphasises that mobile data services including 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, and public Wi-Fi could potentially be exploited by disruptive elements to incite unrest or spread misinformation, thereby threatening peace in the region.
The upper reaches of Bhaderwah border the higher altitudes of Kathua district, an area from which several militants allegedly infiltrated Doda district last year, officials said.
Authorities have urged the public to cooperate, stressing that such precautionary measures are taken in the interest of maintaining peace and security.
