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J&K Suspends Telecom in 3 Kishtwar Villages Over Security Threat

The Jammu and Kashmir government has temporarily suspended all mobile data services in the villages of Singhpora, Chingam, and Chatroo in Kishtwar district. The order, in effect from January 29 to 30, 2026, was issued to prevent potential misuse by anti-national elements. Authorities stated the step was necessary for India's sovereignty, integrity, and the security of the Union Territory. The move follows a security review by senior army officials in the Jammu region.

Key Points: J&K Suspends Telecom Services in Kishtwar Over Security

  • Telecom suspended in 3 Kishtwar villages
  • Action cites security, misuse by anti-nationals
  • Order valid for 48 hours from Jan 29
  • Part of broader security review in Jammu region
3 min read

J-K Government suspends Telecom services in three Jammu villages over security concerns

Jammu & Kashmir government suspends mobile data in three villages citing misuse by anti-national elements and threats to public order.

"to suspend mobile data services... to avoid its misuse by ANEs in the interest of sovereignty and Integrity of India - J&K Government Statement"

Jammu, January 30

The Jammu and Kashmir Government temporarily suspended telecom services in Singhpora, Chingam, and Chatroo of Kishtwar district on Friday, citing security concerns and potential misuse by 'anti-national elements'.

In an official statement, the government noted that the decision was taken in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India and the security of the Union Territory. Authorities cited the risk of misuse by anti-national elements, which could lead to deterioration in public order and public unrest.

"Whereas, the IGP, Jammu Zone, Jammu being the Authorized Officer under sub rule (1) of Rule 3 of Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Service Rules, 2024, has issued directions to the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs)/Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to suspend mobile data services (2G/3G/4G/5G) temporarily to avoid its misuse by ANES in the interest of sovereignty and Integrity of India and the security of JK UT at below specified location (mentioned with Lat-Long and Radius) in District Kishtwar of Jammu Province w.e.f 29.01.2026 (0001 HRS) to 30.01.2026 (2359 HRS) and; Location: Singhpora, Chingam and Chatroo," said J&K government statement.

The order/letter mentions that high speed Mobile Data services are likely to be misused by anti-national elements/miscreants, which may cause deterioration in public order and unrest among the general masses," the statement added.

"Now, therefore, upon consideration of the various aspects, as brought out in the material provided by the Authorized Officer, I, Principal Secretary to Government, Home Department, being satisfied that there was absolute necessity for issuance of the aforesaid directions by the Authorized Officer, without obtaining prior approval of the Competent Authority, in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State/UT and for maintaining public order, hereby confirm Order No. 185(TSTS) of 2026 dated 29.01.2026, under endorsement No. JZ/CS/Snap-Down/2026/186-87 dated 29.01.2026 issued by the Authorized Officer, in exercise of powers conferred under sub-Rule (1) of Rule 3 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Service Rules, 2024 read with clause(b) of sub section (2) of section 20 of the Telecommunication Act, 2023," added the statement by J-K government.

Earlier, Lt Gen P K Mishra, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps, reviewed the security situation at Basantgarh in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur.

The GOC commended the troops of Delta Force for their high morale, professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty.

The White Knight Corps said in a post on X, "The GOC urged all ranks to remain razor-sharp and proactive, adopting an unrelenting approach against terrorism."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
I understand the security concerns, but a 48-hour blackout is very disruptive for ordinary people. Students, businesses, families trying to connect... hope the authorities have a very solid reason for this.
A
Aman W
J&K has seen too much violence. If cutting off telecom for a short period prevents even one terror incident and saves lives, it's worth the temporary inconvenience. Salute to our armed forces for their vigilance.
S
Sarah B
While security is paramount, these blanket shutdowns affect everyone. There must be more targeted methods. What about emergency services? What if someone needs a doctor? The policy needs refinement.
V
Vikram M
The order mentions specific locations with lat-long. This shows it's intelligence-based, not arbitrary. Our security forces are doing a difficult job in a sensitive region. We should trust their judgement.
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Nikhil C
It's a double-edged sword. Yes, security is critical. But in 2026, the internet is not a luxury, it's essential for life and livelihood. Hope the government also has a plan to support affected locals during this time.

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