Azad Kashmir Internet Remains Down Despite Normalcy

Despite normalcy returning to Azad Kashmir, internet service remains suspended, causing significant difficulties for citizens.

The ongoing disruption has created widespread inconvenience, affecting communication, business, and access to information.

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Internet service was initially suspended on Sunday, May 12, in response to a protest led by the Joint Action Committee, which began on May 11 with significant public participation.

On May 13, after the government agreed to the protesters’ demands, internet service was briefly restored. However, following a deadly clash between the paramilitary Rangers and local youth in Muzaffarabad, resulting in the deaths of three young men, the situation escalated, leading to another suspension of internet service.

NetBlocks, an internet observatory organization, reported, “Network data show that the internet disruption in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, is ongoing as authorities crack down on protests amid reports of rising casualties; service was briefly restored during negotiations on Monday but shut down again after deadly clashes.”

Funeral prayers for the youths killed in the Rangers’ firing were held in Muzaffarabad yesterday. Following the funeral, protesters peacefully departed to their respective areas. However, the restoration of internet service remains pending, adding to the citizens’ frustration.

When contacted for comment, the spokesperson for the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) did not respond.

However, PTA sources indicated that the decision to suspend the internet service was made by the Ministry of Interior at the request of the Azad Kashmir government. The suspension was attributed to security concerns, and any timeframe for restoration would be provided by the Azad Kashmir government or the Ministry of Interior.