On 11th May, the supreme court of India set up a high powered committeeto take a decision on whether 4G Internet can be restored in J&K or not as demanded by NGO foundation of Media Professionals and Private Schools Association.The committee shall consist ofSecretary, Communications and the Chief Secretary of the Jammu & Kashmir administration and be headed by home secretary.
The supreme court order read that:" The Special Committee shall be headed by home secretary, government of India; the committee must examine the appropriateness of limiting the restrictions to those areas where it is necessary and allowing of a faster Internet on trial basis over certain geographical areas.”The committee shall consider the district-wise security situation on the matter.
The petitioners argued that 4G speed was necessary for ensuring healthcare, education and business due to the pandemic. Also it was brought to notice that some internet users were unable to download the ArogyaSetu App due to slow internet speed.
On the other hand it was argued by the officials that the restoration could increase anti-national activities and terrorism.
A three judge bench, headed by Justice NV Ramana, said that the court has to balance both human rights and national security. With the on-going pandemic the concerns have arisen and so adequate procedural safeguards have to be looked upon. Citing a recent encounter in which five army personnel including a colonel were killed in Kashmir, the apex court reiterated that allowing 4G restoration will further surge terror activities in the region.
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