Internet restrictions have continued in Pakistan-administered Kashmir for more than 100 days, with mobile data and broadband services remaining suspended since protests over electoral reforms erupted in June.
The partial shutdown, which began on June 5, has continued despite the completion of staggered legislative elections and the formation of a new government.
According to NetBlocks, an independent organisation monitoring internet connectivity, the prolonged restrictions have severely affected access to online services across the region.
Residents have reported difficulties accessing websites and applications used for online banking, disrupting business and commercial activities. The shutdown has also affected students, with authorities postponing entrance examinations amid the disruption to the academic calendar.
The protests began ahead of legislative elections scheduled for July 27. The unrest followed demands by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), a grassroots alliance, for electoral reforms, including the removal of 12 seats reserved for refugees from Indian-administered Kashmir living elsewhere in Pakistan.
Authorities banned the JKJAAC on June 5 and imposed the internet restrictions as protests intensified.
Violence escalated on July 27, with clashes reported between protesters and security forces. Residents and local estimates have put the death toll at more than 50, including seven law enforcement personnel, though the figures have not been independently verified.
Voting was not held in some protest-affected areas because of security concerns. However, authorities proceeded with the formation of a new government based on results from the rest of the territory.
Despite the conclusion of the final phase of voting on August 10, internet restrictions have remained in place, continuing to affect daily life, education and economic activity across the region.
