Indefinite internet ban by state is abuse of power: Indian SC on IoK curfew

• The SC has directed IoK govt to review all restrictive orders within a week.

The Supreme Court of India said on Friday that freedom of internet is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(a) and that indefinite internet ban by the state is an abuse of power.

The Indian SC was hearing the petitions challenging the restrictions on communication imposed in Indian occupied Kashmir since August 5 last year until today. "Kashmir has seen a lot of violence. We will try our best to balance the human rights and freedoms with the issue of security," the bench said.

The SC has directed IoK government to review all restrictive orders within a week, ANI reported. The court in its order has also directed restoration of internet services in all institutions providing essential services like hospital and educational institutions.

The bench also said that all orders imposing restrictions should be published so that they can be challenged in courts of law.

The Indian government has imposed a curfew in the valley after revoking the special status granted to IoK and splitting it into two federal territories. Since August 5, internet services and pre-paid services have been suspended while very limited text messages have been allowed in the valley.