2G mobile internet restored in Doda after week-long suspension

Ramban, Sep 16: Authorities restored 2G and 3G mobile internet services across Doda district on Tuesday, a week after they were suspended following protests over the detention of a sitting legislator, though residents are pressing for high-speed connectivity to be resumed.

Earlier on Monday, broadband and Wi-Fi services were reopened, while schools and colleges also resumed functioning.

Prohibitory restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) had been imposed across Doda district.

Locals, however, continue to face difficulties due to slow mobile internet speeds. Many residents complained that essential services such as online banking, digital payments, and other online facilities remain inaccessible. Munish Kotwal, a resident of Bhaderwah, said he struggled to make online payments due to the poor connectivity. People have urged the administration to restore high-speed mobile internet across the district at the earliest.

During the period of unrest, DIG Doda-Kishtwar-Ramban Range Shridhar Patil and Deputy Commissioner Doda Harvinder Singh held a meeting with members of civil society, including transport unions and religious leaders, to restore calm.

On Monday, SSP Doda Sandeep Mehta said that restrictions were being gradually eased in the district, including the phased restoration of internet services. He also cautioned that strict action would be taken against social media users found uploading provocative content or sharing fake news.

Locals in the area said that with easing in restrictions and communication services partially restored, Doda was slowly limping back to normalcy.