SFLC.in wrote to the Jammu and Kashmir adminstration 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 erestwhile 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 cyliners, 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.