All curbs lifted, only 4G restriction remains in JK after 1-year: Advisor Bhatnagar   

Afaq Bhat
Srinagar, Aug 4:  Lieutenant Governor’s Advisor, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, on Tuesday said that all curbs have been lifted in Jammu and Kashmir since August 5, 2019 and only 4G internet service continues to remain barred.
In an exclusive telephonic interview with Precious Kashmir Advisor Bhatnagar, said, “The only restriction prevalent in J&K after one year (since Aug 5, 2019) is that there is no 4G internet service. Rest all the curbs have been lifted.”
Asked whether there is any possibility about 4G being restored in near future in J&K, Advisor Bhatnagar remained non-committal. “Many internet applications are working normally. Even the students are attending the online classes,” he added.
It may be recalled that 4G internet services in Jammu and Kashmir were suspended on August 5, 2019 when Centre announced its decision to abrogate J&K’s special status and divided the erstwhile State into two Union Territories. The restrictions on 2G internet service and fixed line connections were lifted in February this year.
Advisor Bhatnagar—who retired as the Director General of Central Reserve Police Force last year—while commenting upon the overall security situation in Kashmir said, “The security situation has improved during the past one year. Recruitment of local youth in militant ranks and the incidents of stone pelting have declined. Many myths which were prevalent before August 5, 2019 stand shattered. People of Kashmir have moved on with their lives and have acknowledged the change in status-quo peacefully.”
Advisor Bhatnagar said that people of Kashmir have been very supportive and deserve all the credit for improvement in overall security scenario. “Administration and the security set up have managed the things well. Success of security forces against the militants has played a pivotal role in restoring the sense of security among the people,” he added.
Asked about the revival of political activities in Jammu and Kashmir, the Advisor said, “Most political detainees have been set free. They can carry on with their activities as no restrictions have been imposed on them.”
Referring to the various developmental activities being carried out by the government, Advisor Bhatnagar said, “The government is in the process of accelerating the development and the work done by the various departments, including the Jal Shakti department, has been commendable. The department is on the mission to provide tap water to every household in Jammu and Kashmir.”
He said that the J&K administration is working 24×7 and has handled the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic in a very professional manner.
Replying to a question about the changed Kashmir scenario post August 5, 2019, the Advisor said, “Overall improvement in the situation and Kashmir remaining peaceful are visible changes on the ground. And overall scenario is all set to become much better in coming days.”