Delhi; 07 Feb 2021 (UMMN): 4G connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir was restored within hours after the US State Department expressed concern over the Indian government denying access to the internet to its own citizens.
"4G mobile internet services being restored in entire J&K," tweeted Jammu and Kashmir administration spokesperson Rohit Kansal.
4G services were abruptly snapped with the abrogation of Article 370 on 5 August 2019.
According to Janta Ka Reporter, the government’s decision to end the internet blockade lasting for 551 days came hours after the new US administration headed by President Joe Biden minced no words in expressing its displeasure over the crackdown against the protesting farmers.
A State Department spokesperson had said, “We recognize that unhindered access to information, including the internet, is fundamental to the freedom of expression…”
Jammu and Kashmir was put under what became the world's longest-running internet shutdown in a democratic country, when the centre announced plans to scrap its autonomy listed in the constitution.
Several international celebrities including pop icon Rihanna, climate activist Greta Thunberg and US Vice President’s niece Meena Harris had taken to social media to condemn India’s internet blockade in view of farmers’ protests.
