Internet Shutdowns Blog

Our Letter to J & K administration against imposing internet shutdowns during the second wave of COVID19 pandemic

May 10, 2021, 10:44 a.m.

SFLC.in wrote to the Jammu and Kashmir administration urging them to not impose an internet shutdown in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and to ensure that citizens have access to full speed stable internet. 

The erstwhile state had  recently suffered from two internet shutdowns, one on 6.05.2021 in Shopian, Kashmir and the other one on 4.05.2021 in Sopore, Kashmir. 

During the deadly second wave of the COVID 19 pandemic Internet has become even more crucial with citizens looking for resources online. Students have been taking online classes, businesses have been running online, professionals are working from home and tele medicine is taking place. Citizens of the entire country have been looking for life saving resources such as essential drugs, oxygen cylinders, hospital beds and ambulance services online. In absence of internet moreover, a vaccination appointment cannot be booked as vaccination appointment for the age group of 18-44 years is only available through an online portal called Cowin run by the Government of India.

Through this letter we have urged the administration to not impose any shutdowns. The full letter can be accessed at https://sflc.in/our-letter-jammu-and-kashmir-adminstration-against-imposing-shutdowns-during-deadly-second-wave

Software Freedom Law Center India

SFLC.IN is the first Indian legal services organization that works exclusively on technology, law, and policy. As a not-for-profit organization engaged in the empowerment of Indian citizens about their digital freedom and rights, it operates as a collective, bringing together different stakeholders to a common platform to further the cause of digital rights. SFLC.in promotes innovation and open access to knowledge by helping policy makers make informed and just decisions regarding the use and adoption of technology. As of 2020, SFLC.in is the only Indian organization to be inducted as a member of the IFEX, a global network to defend the right to freedom of expression and information.

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