J&K Police Intensify Crackdown on SIM Card Misuse Across Multiple Districts
Srinagar: In a sustained effort to strengthen internal security and curb the misuse of mobile communication services, the Jammu and Kashmir Police conducted extensive inspections of SIM card vendors across Shopian, Pulwama, Anantnag, Sopore, Awantipora, and Handwara.
According to a police spokesperson, a district-wide crackdown on illegal issuance of SIM cards was launched in Shopian under the supervision of SSP Shopian, Mushtaq Ahmad Choudhary (JKPS). The drive focused on identifying and taking action against vendors issuing SIM cards without proper verification — a practice posing serious risks to public safety and national security. Surprise inspections were carried out at multiple telecom outlets across the district.
In Pulwama, police teams conducted a comprehensive verification drive of SIM vendors to prevent misuse and ensure strict adherence to legal norms. Officers visited several SIM sale outlets and franchise points to verify compliance with the law.
Similarly, in Anantnag, police launched a massive crackdown across the district, with multiple teams inspecting vendors to ensure compliance with Department of Telecommunications (DoT) guidelines. The checks focused on verifying customer documents, KYC procedures, and vendor licenses. Vendors were also sensitized about their legal responsibilities and warned of stern action for any violations.
In Sopore, police carried out a coordinated inspection drive, with teams simultaneously checking SIM vendors to enforce strict adherence to DoT regulations.
In Awantipora, a large-scale verification and search operation was conducted under the supervision of SDPOs, SHOs, and in-charge officers of police posts. Teams carried out detailed inspections and raids to prevent the misuse of SIM cards for unlawful or anti-social activities, emphasizing transparent and legitimate documentation during issuance.
In Handwara, police conducted special checks on SIM vendors across Handwara, Qalamabad, Kralgund, and Vilgam. Supervised by senior officers, multiple outlets were inspected to ensure full compliance with DoT and law enforcement guidelines.
The J&K Police reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding national and public security, ensuring responsible use of digital infrastructure, and maintaining constant vigilance against activities that threaten peace and stability in the region.
