Jammu and Kashmir cracks down on banned VPNs with 150 facing legal action

A sweeping crackdown on banned VPNs sparks legal action across Kashmir. Why are officials calling this a necessary move against potential misuse?

, and Administrator

2026 January 3 . 11:24 PM

1 min read

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Jammu and Kashmir cracks down on banned VPNs with 150 facing legal action

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have cracked down on the use of banned VPN applications across multiple districts, with around 150 people facing legal action for violating temporary restrictions on VPN immigration. The VPN ban covers all ten districts of the Kashmir Valley and several areas in the Jammu region. Enforcement began after orders were issued in late December 2025, with restrictions set to last roughly two months. In Pulwama, 43 individuals now face preventive security proceedings for using unauthorised VPNs. The Superintendent of Police (SP) justified the measures in January 2026, stating they were necessary to curb potential misuse. Meanwhile, in Sopore, Baramulla, 15 people have had legal proceedings initiated against them for similar violations. Other districts have also seen action. In Shopian, 10 adults and 5 minors were counselled for VPN use. Anantnag recorded legal action against 5 individuals, while Kulgam saw 6 people facing security proceedings. Doda and Rajouri reported 3 cases of individuals booked for possessing banned VPN apps. Authorities have repeatedly emphasised that the high volume of VPN immigration raised red flags. They argue that such tools could be exploited for illegal purposes, prompting the temporary but strict enforcement. The crackdown has resulted in around 150 cases across the region so far. Those found violating the ban face legal or preventive measures, depending on the district. The restrictions remain in place until the temporary orders expire in the coming weeks.