Doda/Jammu: 2G mobile internet services were restored on Tuesday in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district after being suspended for a week, officials said, as life gradually returns to normal following protests over the PSA detention of sitting AAP MLA Mehraj Malik on September 8.
Low-speed mobile connectivity across the district resumed in the early hours, though residents reported difficulties with online banking and other digital services due to the limited 2G bandwidth, calling for full restoration.
Authorities had already restored broadband internet and lifted restrictions under Section 163 BNSS in most parts of the district on Sunday, alongside the resumption of normal activities. Educational institutions reopened on Monday after a three-week closure.
“We welcome the return of 2G services, but they are insufficient for tasks like mobile banking, online shopping, and accessing government services, which increasingly rely on digital platforms,” said Feroz Ahmad, a resident of Doda.
He added that residents are still facing hardships caused by heavy rainfall and flash floods between August 26 and September 6, compounded by the week-long restrictions following the unrest after September 8. “ATMs are running dry, banks have long queues… The government should restore 4G services immediately to provide relief to the people,” he said.
Doda Senior Superintendent of Police Sandeep Mehta assured that restrictions, including mobile internet services, will be eased gradually. However, he warned of strict action against social media users uploading provocative videos or spreading fake news intended to disturb the peace in the district.
Malik, who is also the president of the AAP’s J&K unit, was detained on September 8 for allegedly disturbing public order. His detention triggered violent protests, prompting authorities to impose prohibitory restrictions and suspend mobile internet and broadband services.
