Kishtwar, Dec. 25: In a significant development aimed at safeguarding national security, the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar has imposed an immediate and complete ban on the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) within the district. The directive, issued by District Magistrate Pankaj Sharma, comes under Section 163 of the BNSS 2023 and addresses mounting concerns over the misuse of VPNs in the region.
The ban follows serious apprehensions that VPNs are being exploited by terrorists, Over Ground Workers (OGWs), and other miscreants in Jammu and Kashmir. According to sources, these individuals have been using VPN services to bypass internet restrictions, enabling access to banned mobile apps, websites, and internet connectivity that could be linked to unlawful or anti-national activities.
Authorities have raised alarms over the growing use of VPNs by groups with subversive intent, who are reportedly leveraging the technology to spread misleading and provocative content. This content is often designed to incite violence or unrest in the region, creating significant concerns regarding cybersecurity, public order, and national security.
Local officials have also expressed concern that these VPNs could be used to coordinate anti-national activities or terrorist operations, especially as the region remains on high alert for potential security threats. Reports suggest that these VPNs are being used as tools to obfuscate identity and location, thus making it harder for authorities to track the individuals involved in such activities.
District Magistrate Pankaj Sharma emphasized that the ban on VPN usage is a necessary step to ensure public safety and preserve the integrity of national security. “The misuse of VPNs poses a direct threat to the security of our citizens and the country as a whole,” he stated in an official release. “We cannot allow individuals or groups to exploit technology in ways that undermine our efforts to maintain peace and order.”
The order comes at a time when the Jammu and Kashmir region has been facing growing challenges related to cyber threats and misinformation. Authorities are increasingly concerned that unrestricted access to the internet could facilitate the spread of extremist ideologies, propaganda, and illicit activities.
According to sources within the security forces, VPNs have been identified as a critical tool for facilitating communication between terrorist groups and their supporters, both locally and internationally. It is feared that the anonymity provided by these services allows such groups to recruit, radicalize, and organize operations without detection.
The government has warned that strict legal action will be taken against any individual or entity found violating the new directive. Legal experts suggest that violators could face severe penalties under existing cybersecurity and national security laws, including possible imprisonment and heavy fines.
Local Reactions:
While the decision has been welcomed by security agencies as a necessary measure, it has sparked debate within the community. Some residents express concerns over the impact on privacy and internet freedom, while others see the move as an essential step to combat rising security threats in the region.
Tech Industry Concerns:
The VPN ban has also raised concerns among local tech entrepreneurs and businesses who rely on secure internet connections for their operations. Some have expressed fears that the ban could disrupt legitimate business activities, particularly those in the tech and e-commerce sectors. However, authorities have reassured the public that exceptions may be made for essential services and businesses, provided they comply with the new regulations.
As the situation continues to evolve, the Kishtwar district administration has urged residents to stay informed about the latest developments and comply with the new order. The ban on VPNs is expected to remain in effect until further notice, and officials have promised to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety and security of the public.
Further updates will follow as authorities continue to assess the situation and take necessary actions to address any violations of the directive.
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