The internet shutdown in Pakistan-administered Kashmir has exceeded 100 days

The internet shutdown in Pakistan-administered Kashmir has exceeded 100 days, affecting the daily lives of the people. These restrictions have been in place since the onset of protests for electoral reforms in early June, and while elections have been held in phases, the lives of people in this region continue to be disrupted.

Current state of the internet and daily life

Since June 5, internet services in Pakistan-administered Kashmir have been severely restricted, with access to mobile data and fixed internet suspended. These restrictions have continued following the elections, which were held in three phases, the last of which concluded on August 10. Despite the formation of a new government, the internet shutdown continues to disrupt the daily lives of the people.

Read more: Hamas: The BRICS statement is nothing but an illusion!

Access to websites and online banking applications in this region remains impossible, negatively impacting business activities. On the other hand, the school year for students has also been disrupted, and the government has postponed entrance exams. According to reports from independent agencies, the level of unrest and protests in this region has significantly increased, and the continuation of the internet shutdown has affected the general condition of the people.

Power struggle and unrest in Kashmir

Unrest in Pakistan-administered Kashmir began as the local elections, scheduled for July 27, approached. This is a disputed region fully claimed by both India and Pakistan. Pakistan-administered Kashmir is governed under a semi-autonomous system and has a Prime Minister and an assembly with 45 seats, including 12 seats reserved for refugees from Indian-administered Kashmir.

Authorities began cutting off the internet on June 5 and responded harshly to protests, which led to deadly clashes on July 27. Local estimates and residents' accounts suggest that the number of casualties from these clashes has exceeded 50, including seven members of the security forces. However, these figures cannot be independently verified.

In some areas identified as protest centers, voting did not take place for security reasons. However, the government was formed based on the election results in other parts of this autonomous region. This situation reflects ongoing tensions and political complexities in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, and while people seek to return to their normal lives, they face many challenges ahead.

Read more: Sharif's criticism of the Iran-Oman meeting · Genta Koja's victory in the Okinawa gubernatorial election