Jammu and Kashmir Bans VPNs Citing Security Concerns

In December 2025, several districts in Jammu and Kashmir, India, banned the use of unauthorized Virtual Private Network (VPN) services.

The district officials said that VPNs could be misused by terrorists and their supporters for encrypted communication.

VPNs allow users to browse the internet securely and bypass restrictions.

However, experts argue that the ban is legally and constitutionally flawed because there are no Indian laws prohibiting VPN use.

The ban also contradicts Supreme Court rulings on privacy and the right to access the internet.

The administration used emergency powers to impose the ban, which experts say is an overreach.

The police have taken action against individuals violating the ban, including arrests and preventive measures.

Legal experts question the legality of the ban and the use of emergency powers for this purpose.