Updated
Updated · Al Jazeera English · Sep 15
Pakistan-Administered Kashmir Extends Internet Curbs Beyond 100 Days After 50 Protest Deaths
Updated
Updated · Al Jazeera English · Sep 15

Pakistan-Administered Kashmir Extends Internet Curbs Beyond 100 Days After 50 Protest Deaths

1 articles · Updated · Al Jazeera English · Sep 15

Summary

  • More than 100 days after mobile data and broadband were cut on June 5, Pakistan-administered Kashmir still faces a partial internet shutdown despite a new government taking office.
  • The blackout began after authorities banned the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee, whose campaign to scrap 12 refugee-reserved assembly seats helped trigger protests over electoral reform.
  • Online banking sites and apps remain inaccessible, hitting business activity, while students have seen the academic year disrupted and entrance exams postponed.
  • Deadly clashes on July 27 pushed the reported toll above 50, including seven law enforcement personnel, and some protest strongholds did not vote before staggered elections ended on August 10.

Insights

Why does the internet blackout in Pakistan-administered Kashmir continue even after a new government has been formed and elections concluded?
How did a grassroots demand for cheaper flour in Kashmir escalate into deadly constitutional clashes and a 100-day digital blackout?
Can a newly formed government legitimately rule when voting was completely canceled in major protest strongholds due to severe unrest?