The step to lift restrictions in two low threat zones will be reviewed every week

The government will lift the 4G internet ban in one district each of the Jammu and Kashmir divisions of the Union Territory from August 16, the central government has informed the Supreme Court.

The decision has been taken in compliance with an earlier order by the Supreme Court.

A Hindustan Times report said that the restrictions on high-speed internet will be lifted on a trial basis for two months in the districts having low intensity of terrorist activities. The step to lift restrictions in the two low-threat zones will be reviewed every week.

According to the report, a special committee was constituted by the central government following the apex court’s May 11 order to review the restriction on mobile internet speed in Jammu and Kashmir. Attorney General KK Venugopal on August 10 told a three-judge bench headed by NV Ramana that the threat of terrorist activities continues to remain high, therefore, the restrictions cannot be lifted from the whole valley.

The report mentioned that the government is planning to continue with the restrictions for at least next two months after which they will be reviewed again.

The court was informed about this while it was hearing a contempt petition against the central government by NGO Foundation for Media Professionals for non-compliance of the SC’s May 11 order.

As per the HT report, the court appreciated the Central government’s stand but directed them to respond to an interim application asking the government to put the order related to internet ban in public domain.

The Apex Court on May 11 had asked the government to review the internet ban in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

Read the full report in Hindustan Times