Jammu, September 15 (TNA) District Magistrate of Udhampur, Minga Sherpa, has ordered a complete prohibition on the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) across the district for two months, citing security and law-and-order concerns.
The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, said security and intelligence agencies had provided inputs regarding alleged misuse of VPNs to bypass lawful cyber restrictions and access prohibited websites, applications and digital platforms.
The administration said such misuse could facilitate activities prejudicial to public order and security, including dissemination of inflammatory or objectionable content, incitement to violence and coordination of illegal activities.
The prohibition applies to individuals, institutions, cyber cafés, commercial establishments and Internet Service Providers operating within Udhampur district. VPN use expressly authorised by the Government or a competent authority through an official order has been exempted.
The District Magistrate said the measure was an immediate preventive step to safeguard cyber security and ensure compliance with lawful restrictions. Violations will invite action under relevant provisions of law.
The order will remain in force for two months from September 10, unless rescinded, modified or withdrawn earlier. The Senior Superintendent of Police, Udhampur, has been directed to ensure strict and uniform enforcement.