Internet Outage in Pakistan‑Administered Kashmir Surpasses 100 Days Amid Post‑Election Unrest

Mobile data and broadband services have been suspended in the region since protests calling for electoral reform erupted in June.

Published On 15 Sep 202615 Sep 2026

Internet access in Pakistan‑administered Kashmir has been severely restricted for over 100 days.

Mobile data and broadband services have been suspended since early June protests for electoral reform. In response, authorities staged staggered elections over three rounds, concluding on August 10. Nonetheless, the partial internet shutdown persists, disrupting daily life even after the new government was formed.

Access to online banking websites and apps remains unavailable, affecting regional business activity. The shutdown has also disrupted the academic year, prompting the government to postpone entrance examinations.

The partial internet blackout has continued uninterrupted since June 5, according to NetBlocks, an independent monitor of internet shutdowns.

What triggered the protests?

The unrest originated in the run‑up to the local elections scheduled for July 27.

Kashmir is a disputed territory claimed by both India and Pakistan. Pakistan‑administered Kashmir operates under a semi‑autonomous system, with its own prime minister and a 45‑seat legislative assembly, of which 12 seats are reserved for refugees from Indian‑administered Kashmir residing elsewhere in Pakistan.

On June 5, authorities banned the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), a grassroots umbrella group that advocated for the removal of the 12 reserved seats in the legislature.

Authorities imposed an internet shutdown on June 5 and responded to protests with force, leading to violent clashes on July 27.

Local residents and estimates indicate that the death toll has exceeded 50, including seven law enforcement personnel, though the figures could not be independently verified.

Voting was not held in certain protest strongholds for security reasons, while the new government was formed based on election results from the remainder of the autonomous region.

Source link